'The best decision for me'- Arsenal star Martin Odegaard opens up on leaving Real Madrid

Two years ago, the Norwegian playmaker, who had already completed an initial loan stint at the Emirates, made the £30 million permanent move from Madrid to Arsenal.

Odegaard received the Arsenal captain band in July of last year after establishing himself as a crucial member of Mikel Arteta's team and one of the league's top players.

The Norwegian sensation has now opened up on his move from Santiago Bernabeu to the Emirate stadium.

Odegaard was sold by Real Madrid after making just 11 appearances and failed to score or provide an assist.

Odegaard said, as reported by Daily Mail, “My time at Madrid was good. It was a positive stage, although perhaps some might think otherwise.

“I learned a lot, I matured a lot and I was able to train with some of the best players in the world. But in the end, leaving was the best decision for me, I wanted to play more and continue growing. 

“I played with them and I enjoyed it. Maybe the opportunity came too soon but 'It was a great experience'.

“I'm happy with the decision I made and how it went. If I hadn't gone through Madrid I wouldn't have reached the level I have today. 

During Odegaard's tenure at the club, Madrid's squad was loaded with superstars like Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gareth Bale, therefore he was unable to make his way into the senior squad.

He continued, “Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world and the pressure is noticeable, even if it wasn't as much as Ronaldo, Beckham and company were there.”

Meanwhile, Odegaard's performances at Arsenal led to the signing of a new, five-year deal that will keep him with the team through the summer of 2028.