The Magic of Steven Odegard Shining at Arsenal and for Norway

The Rise of Steven Odegard

Steven Odegard has become one of the brightest young talents in soccer. At just 24 years old, he has already established himself as a key player for Premier League giants Arsenal and the Norwegian national team. His technical ability, vision, passing range and leadership have earned him plenty of plaudits.

Odegard began playing soccer from a very young age in his hometown of Drammen, Norway. He quickly stood out for his intelligence on the ball and ability to control midfield. This led to him joining the youth academy of Norwegian team Stromsgodset at 15 years old where he continued his development.

Early Professional Career

Such was his precocious talent that Odegard made his professional debut for Stromsgodset shortly after his 16th birthday in April 2015. He instantly looked at home against grown men and became the youngest ever debutant and goalscorer in the Norwegian top flight.

His rapid rise soon caught the attention of major European teams. In January 2015, Spanish giants Real Madrid signed him to join their youth academy after only a handful of senior appearances for Stromsgodset. The deal was reported to be worth €3 million up front, with the fee potentially rising to €8 million depending on incentives - a huge amount for such an unproven talent.

Loans to the Eredivisie

After impressing for Real Madrid's reserve team, Odegard went on several loans to gain first-team experience. The first brought him to Dutch team Heerenveen for 18 months where he excelled in the Eredivisie. His vision and passing range helped him contribute 5 goals and 9 assists in 39 games.

That led to a further year-long loan to Vitesse Arnhem for the 2018/19 season. Here Odegard's game grew further as he took on a leadership role, captaining the side at times. He produced some dominant midfield displays, scoring 3 and assisting a mighty 12 goals in 39 total appearances.

Breakthrough at Real Sociedad

The 2019/20 season saw Odegard join Real Sociedad in another loan move. It proved to be his breakthrough campaign as he became a true star in La Liga aged just 20.

As Sociedad's primary creative outlet from central midfield, he showcased his full array of passing, dribbling quality and reading of the game. Odegard scored 7 goals himself and provided 9 assists for his teammates as Sociedad qualified for Europe.

His performances led him to be named as La Liga's 'Breakthrough Player of the Year' for 2019/20. Finally Odegard was fulfilling his sky-high potential that had made him such a coveted prospect since his teens.

Returning to Real Madrid

After starring while on loan, Odegard returned to parent club Real Madrid for 2020/21. He started the season strongly under Zinedine Zidane and seemed to have a good chance of cementing his place there.

However, an ankle injury interrupted his progress in December 2020. Struggling for minutes after returning to fitness, he would make just 11 total appearances before seeking another loan move to develop further.

Joining Arsenal

In January 2021, Odegard joined Arsenal on loan for the remainder of 2020/21. Then manager Mikel Arteta was a long-time admirer and moved quickly to sign the Norwegian.

The technically gifted Odegard immediately slotted into Arsenal's midfield to offer creativity going forward. He built an excellent understanding with attackers like Bukayo Saka and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Despite only joining midseason, Odegard produced 2 goals and 3 assists in 20 games for Arsenal. His performances showed he was ready for Premier League speed and physicality.

Making the Move Permanent

Impressed with Odegard's displays, Arsenal negotiated to sign him permanently last summer for a reported £30 million. He had clearly demonstrated he could be an influential player in England.

Now with the security of a long-term contract, manager Mikel Arteta made Odegard a focal point of Arsenal's rebuild. Handed the iconic number 8 shirt previously worn by legends like Ian Wright, the Norwegian seems central to the club's future plans.

Importance to Arsenal and Norway

The 2022/23 season has seen Odegard take his performances up another level. He leads Arsenal in chances created as his vision and passing range enable their dangerous front line.

Moreover, Odegard has taken on a leadership role, often captaining Arsenal at just 23 years old. His maturity belies his age and sets an example to the talented youngsters around him.

For Norway too, Odegard has become integral. Currently wearing the captain's armband for his country, he spearheads their continued improvement.

Still only 24, Steven Odegard's best years undoubtedly lie ahead. The magic he produces on the pitch looks set to only grow stronger. Both Arsenal and Norway appear positioned to benefit greatly thanks to his enormous talent and influence.

FAQs

How old is Steven Odegard?

Steven Odegard is currently 24 years old. He was born on December 17, 1998 in Drammen, Norway.

What position does Odegard play?

Odegard primarily plays as a central attacking midfielder. From this position, he can dictate play with his excellent vision, passing range and dribbling ability.

What transfer fee did Arsenal pay for Odegard?

Arsenal signed Odegard permanently in August 2021 after an initial loan spell. The transfer fee paid to Real Madrid was reported to be £30 million.

Who does Odegard currently play for?

Steven Odegard is currently a player for Premier League club Arsenal. He joined them initially on loan in January 2021, before the move was made permanent the following summer transfer window.