Arsenal’s current captain, Martin Odegaard, has been drawing comparisons to the club’s former playmaker Mesut Ozil, not just for their shared position on the pitch but also for their similar “body shape,” as observed by Arsenal’s esteemed former right-back, Bacary Sagna. Odegaard’s impressive form since his transfer from Real Madrid has sparked discussions among fans and pundits alike, with many in the Arsenal community seeing the potential for him to reach legendary status.
While Odegaard’s trophy cabinet with Arsenal currently holds a Community Shield, aspirations are high for the Norwegian to lead the team to more silverware, emulating Ozil’s success, which includes four FA Cup victories. Sagna’s comments highlight the stylistic and positional resemblances between the two midfielders, suggesting a bright future for Odegaard at the Emirates Stadium.
Speaking to Paddy Power, he said: “I love Martin degaard and the way he plays,” and added: “He plays with passion and technically, he’s very good and smart on the ball,” reports the Mirror.
“He reminds me of Mesut Ozil with the left foot and the way they turn players and anticipate the runs of their teammates. “He’s very clever because whenever he dribbles, he looks at the body shape of every player and tries to get away from trouble when he’s under pressure.”
Sagna also added: “When he’s playing, he can analyse the defenders’ body shape and identify the space and technically he’s very comfortable to look ahead and run forwards.”
“He’s a top player and Ozil was the same player very smart in the way they attract players, analyse the opposition and make the killer passes.”