Martin Ødegaard has put his signature on a new contract with Arsenal. The 24-year-old Norwegian is now tied to the English powerhouse until mid-2028. With the new contract, he is set to become the highest earner in North London, according to The Athletic.
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Ødegaard's previous contract still had two years remaining. Arsenal's leadership was keen to extend his commitment to the club. Ødegaard was loaned from Real Madrid during the second half of the 2020/21 season and subsequently made the permanent switch to The Gunners. The playmaker emerged as Arsenal's new leader and was appointed captain by manager Mikel Arteta.
With his creativity, Ødegaard played a significant role in Arsenal's success last season. The London club finished second in the Premier League, amassing 84 points, the highest point total for the club since the 2003/04 season (when Arsenal last won the league). The left-footer excelled as the orchestrator of the attack. The midfielder scored fifteen goals himself and was invaluable as a provider. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) and Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City) were the only players last season to create more chances from open play in the Premier League.
Ødegaard has now capitalized on his contribution to Arsenal's growth. 'It was an easy decision for me,' said the new top earner when announcing the contract news. 'I've felt at home here since day one. Before that, there were a lot of changes. I also felt like I needed to find a place that would truly become my home,' said the playmaker who was loaned by Real Madrid to SC Heerenveen, Vitesse, Real Sociedad, and now Arsenal.
On Sunday, Arsenal hopes to complete the great week following the convincing 4-0 victory over PSV in the Champions League and the news of Ødegaard's new contract. Then, Arteta's team will face their rival Tottenham Hotspur at home.
Updated: 10:18, 22 Sep 2023
