Martin Odegaard has demonstrated his captaincy credentials by organising a private meeting with his Norway teammates, without coaches present, to address the team's underwhelming performances. The 22-year-old Arsenal midfielder, appointed Norway captain in March, took the initiative following criticism from manager Stale Solbakken over the team's results this year.
Norway, who failed to qualify for Euro 2020, currently sit third in their World Cup qualifying group. After a defeat to Turkey and a loss to Greece in a friendly, Odegaard felt the need for open discussion. 'We spoke completely freely and openly,' Odegaard told TV2. 'Everyone got to air what they had on their minds.'
The meeting focused on improving Norway's displays in 'big matches,' a recurring issue according to Odegaard. 'We have played many big matches in recent years, but have not managed to solve it optimally,' he said. 'This time we thought it was okay that we got to air everything in advance.'
Odegaard's leadership was praised by teammate Stefan Strandberg, who admitted being 'hard' on the Arsenal star and Erling Haaland. 'We have been very honest and very hard on each other,' Strandberg said. 'I’ve said what they have to contribute when they’re as damn good as they are.'
Odegaard played the full 90 minutes against the Netherlands and 88 minutes against Latvia, operating on the right wing. His £34 million move to Arsenal last month has heightened expectations, and his proactive approach with Norway suggests he could take on a leadership role at club level.
