Odegaard ended last season healthy and then excelled for Norway at the World Cup, starting five of their six matches and supplying four assists.
Reflecting on the previous campaign, he admitted it had been a difficult year marked by unusual injuries and long spells out, which he found deeply frustrating. Finishing with a trophy and a strong World Cup showing helped reset him; after a break, he feels refreshed and ready to go. He’s using those setbacks as motivation to come back stronger and to turn the experience into something positive.
In his first start alongside Guimaraes, the pair seemed to connect immediately. Odegaard said it felt like they’d found a rhythm on the pitch and that the whole team was in a good flow—something he’s determined to maintain.
Arteta, meanwhile, is eager to have Odegaard fit for the new season. He noted that various issues kept the midfielder out for five or six months last year, disrupting any momentum. With consistent fitness and the right support around him, Arteta expects to see a very different version of Odegaard this season and senses a renewed drive in him from the first day of pre-season.