Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has intensified the anticipation ahead of Sunday’s crucial encounter with Manchester City, as the Gunners strive to maintain pressure on Liverpool in the Premier League title race.
Odegaard believes the competition between Arsenal and City has driven both teams to greater heights in their pursuit of the championship.
Their rivalry saw tempers flare during their last meeting at the Etihad in September, when City striker Erling Haaland delivered his now-famous “stay humble” remark.
Reflecting on the fierce competition, Odegaard remarked: “It’s normal in high-stakes matches to have a heated rivalry. You’re competing to be the best, and sometimes that intensity is needed.
“Our battles with Man City for the title over the past few years have made us stronger. This rivalry pushes us to perform at our highest level, and that’s our aim again this season.
“It’s difficult to compare, but the past two seasons, particularly last year’s dramatic final-day finish, have made this rivalry even more significant. Fans and players alike carry those memories into the match, adding to the excitement and pressure.
“But we thrive on this. We love the big games, just like the North London Derby, and we’re all looking forward to this challenge.”
Their previous meeting saw Mikel Arteta clash with Haaland, while Arsenal endured a tough second half with ten men following Leandro Trossard’s red card before City secured a last-minute equalizer.
The tension between the two clubs has only grown, particularly between Arteta and City boss Pep Guardiola, despite their past close relationship when Arteta was a coach at the Etihad.
Haaland is set to be a prime target for Arsenal fans at the Emirates, but Odegaard revealed that he remains close friends with his Norwegian teammate.
“We have a great friendship,” Odegaard shared. “A few of us from the national team keep in touch through a group chat, and we check in with each other now and then. We haven’t spoken about this match specifically, but we’re still good friends.
“In football, emotions run high in matches like these, and adrenaline takes over. Things can happen on the pitch, but once the game is over, we move on. It’s not something I dwell on.
“A lot of players know each other from international duty—whether it’s England, Brazil, or me and Erling with Norway—so there’s a different dynamic on and off the pitch. But once the whistle blows, it’s all about the battle.”
