2 years ago
471 Jurgen Klopp has told TV2 in Norway that he cannot say anything negative about Martin Odegaard, and suggested that the Arsenal midfielder he once tried to sign has now surpassed expectations.
Liverpool are the next side standing in Arsenal’s way in the Premier League. The Gunners, of course, top the table after winning the North London derby.
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The Reds have made a poor start to the campaign. But certainly, many more will see Arsenal as title contenders should they win at the Emirates on Sunday.
Klopp cannot say anything negative about Odegaard
Klopp will be worried about a number of Arsenal stars. But perhaps the one who will get most of his attention will be Odegaard.
Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
The Norwegian has been a game-changing signing for the Gunners. He was bright while on loan. But he has reached another level since signing from Real Madrid permanently. And he has taken the side with him as captain.
It is remarkable to think that Odegaard is only 23 years of age. He seems to have been around forever at this stage. But obviously, he really broke onto the scene as a 15-year-old.
That was the time when Klopp attempted to sign him for Borussia Dortmund. Ultimately however, Odegaard opted to join Real Madrid.
The Liverpool boss holds no grudges however. Ahead of this weekend, he insisted that he remains a massive fan of the Arsenal midfielder.
“I am really happy that he has now become the player we all expected him to become,” he told TV2. “Actually even better than that, if you will.
“He plays a massive role in an incredibly strong Arsenal team. He is still young, clear-headed, very influential. I honestly can’t say anything negative about him. Really a top player.”
Odegaard’s move to Arsenal is an underrated moment in the club’s very recent history. While he had struggled at Real Madrid, he had the stature of a superstar upon his arrival.
And it is little surprise that Arsenal have elevated themselves considerably in the two years since his move was made permanent.
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