Martin Ødegaard Defends Erling Haaland of Man City Ahead of Arsenal Clash Amid ‘Stay Humble’ Debate
For Martin Odegaard, Erling Haaland is just a buddy in a WhatsApp group.
Nevertheless, their recent meeting, when Arsenal clashed with Manchester City, saw the high-scoring forward at the heart of a dramatic post-match altercation that intensified the rivalry between the two sides.
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Credit: Sky Sports
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Credit: Sky Sports
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Credit: Rex
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Credit: Sky Sports
During that match, Haaland directed a ball right into Arsenal defender Gabriel’s head and then told Mikel Arteta to ‘stay humble’—a statement that ultimately backfired as City encountered difficulties.
The exciting encounter in September witnessed John Stones netting a last-minute equalizer after ten-man Arsenal valiantly defended their lead, thwarting TWENTY-SEVEN prior attempts from City in an impressive second half.
Moreover, that game saw Rodri sustain a knee injury that has kept him sidelined since.
As they prepare to clash again at the Emirates this Sunday, both sides—who have contested the title over the last two seasons—find themselves looking up at a strong Liverpool.
Odegaard, absent from the 2-2 draw at The Etihad due to injury, expressed his appreciation for the fierce rivalry with City.
Despite this, he stressed that there is no unresolved animosity with Haaland, whom he regards as a friend and a colleague in Norway’s national team.
“We’re good friends,” Odegaard shared. “He and several other guys from the national team have a small group chat, so we keep in touch occasionally—not about football, just normal things.
“We haven’t talked about the match, but he is a good friend, so we communicate.”
