Odegaard also said signing Jesus, Zinchenko and the return of Saliba to the Emirates after loan spell improved Arsenal’s mentality, quality and focus
By Kehinde Okeowo
Arsenal midfielder and captain, Martin Odegaard has disclosed why the Gunners are top of the Premier League (PL) against all odds this season, saying team spirit is one of the secrets employed by the team’s manager, Mikel Arteta.
Odegaard made the assertion while speaking on BT Sport programme ‘Around The Block’, where he also said adding summer signings, Gabriel Jesus, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Fabio Vieira and the return of William Saliba to the Emirates after loan spell took Arsenal to the next level this season.
According to him, they have exceeded all expectations this season, because the players listened to Arteta’s instructions, adding that everyone understands his principles and the way he wants the team to play.
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The North London club currently sits on top of the Premier League table heading into the World Cup break with 37 points having played 14 matches so far.
In addition, Arteta’s men are five points ahead of second-placed Manchester City, who are the favourite to win the league and the defending champion.
Speaking on why the team are currently top of PL, Odegaard said, “The team spirit in the group [Arsenal squad] is really good. Everyone is really hungry and pushing each other.
“If you listen to Arteta, you will perform. It is clear to see why Arsenal are five points clear in the Premier League right now.
“Everyone understands [his] principles, the way we want to play even more.”
He added, “I think this year, with the signings we made, I think they’ve taken us to the next step in terms of mentality, quality and focus.”