Odegaard: Arsenal’s title collapse hurts

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard admits missing out on the Premier League title to Manchester City will “bother me for the rest of my life”.

Mikel Arteta’s side sat top for a total of 248 days but three successive draws in April followed by a 4-1 defeat to City – and back-to-back losses to Brighton and Nottingham Forest respectively – saw the Gunners lose their grip on the trophy.

Asked what went wrong for Arsenal towards the end of the campaign, Odegaard told Viaplay:

“It’s difficult, there are many things that come into play, of course. We competed against the team that has won it all, it was tight and even at the end, especially in the three games [that Arsenal drew], we lost momentum.

“There are so many things that can affect the season, we were close and we must use the disappointment to go closer. I think this will bother me for the rest of my life. We were very close, I almost managed to achieve my dream, I think it will be painful for the rest of my life but we have to try again next year.”

Despite the late collapse, there were several positives for Arsenal throughout a memorable campaign. Odegaard was pleased with his own contribution having scored 15 goals and registered eight assists.

“This was a good season for me, I have delivered well and scored several goals. I have been more important to the team; it’s been good but of course a tough end to the season which still hurts. So, I have mixed feelings.”

In a bid to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season – which starts against Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 6 – Arsenal have been linked with a number of players.

West Ham have reportedly rejected bids for Declan Rice and Ajax defender Jurrien Timber is also said to be a target.

Source: EUROSPORT