Odegaard backs Haaland as Arsenal prepare to face Man City

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has come to the defense of his Norway teammate Erling Haaland ahead of a crucial Premier League match against Manchester City. Despite the heated rivalry between the two clubs, Odegaard insists he and Haaland remain good friends off the pitch.

The last time Arsenal and City met in September, tempers flared after the final whistle when Haaland threw a ball at Arsenal defender Gabriel’s head and told manager Mikel Arteta to “stay humble.” However, Odegaard claims there are no lingering hard feelings.

“We’re good friends,” Odegaard said of Haaland. “We have a group chat with some other national team players where we talk about random things, not football. We haven’t discussed the upcoming game, but he’s a good friend I speak to often.”

Odegaard acknowledged the intensity of matches between Arsenal and City after battling for the title the past two seasons. But he believes the competition has pushed both teams to improve.

“Growing up watching the Premier League, there were always big rivalries,” Odegaard said. “It’s nice that we’re now part of these important games with a lot at stake.”

While City’s title hopes have faded this season, Odegaard remains wary of their quality ahead of Sunday’s clash. He hopes Arsenal can find another gear in the final months to challenge for trophies.

“We’re in a good position but I feel we have another level we can reach,” said the Arsenal captain. “Hopefully we can hit top form now until the end of the season and push for the big trophies.”