Martin Ødegaard is a Norwegian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Premier League club Arsenal and the Norway national team. His remarkable career began at the tender age of 15 in 2014, when he made his senior club debut for Strømsgodset, a Norwegian football club. During his time at Strømsgodset, Ødegaard set the Tippeligaen record for the youngest goalscorer, a feat that showcased his exceptional talent and potential.
In 2015, Ødegaard signed for Real Madrid in a transfer worth an initial €4 million (Kr.35 million),where he set the club record for its youngest player. However, he struggled to secure regular playing time at the club, which led him to join Eredivisie clubs Heerenveen and Vitesse, and La Liga club Real Sociedad, on successive loans between 2017 and 2019. During his time at Real Sociedad, Ødegaard won the Copa del Rey in 2019, a prestigious trophy in Spanish football.
Following another loan, Ødegaard signed for Arsenal in 2021 in a transfer worth an initial £29 million (€35 million). He had a successful first full season with the club, which earned him the captaincy in 2022. Ødegaard's impressive performances on the pitch have made him a key player for both Arsenal and the Norway national team.
In addition to his club career, Ødegaard has also made a significant impact on the international stage. He made his senior international debut for Norway in 2014, at the age of 15, and has set the record for the youngest senior Norway player, as well as the youngest player to play in a UEFA European Championship qualifying match. His impressive performances have made him a vital part of the Norway national team, and he continues to be an exciting prospect in the world of football.
