Yahoo Sports ‘He is really special’: Amorim admits presence of £92m star makes Arsenal ‘stronger’
Manchester United are set to clash with Arsenal in the third round of the FA Cup at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Ahead of the highly-anticipated encounter, United head coach Ruben Amorim lauded Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard in the pre-match press conference.
He said (via ManUtd.com): “I think he’s really special because his influence on all the games of Arsenal is impressive.
“I played against them with Sporting, and he didn’t play both games and you feel it in the team.
“When he’s playing, Arsenal is a different team. They can win and they can lose with Odegaard.
“I expect a strong team. If Odegaard is in the team, they will be stronger, for sure.”
Odegaard has been one of the most influential players of the London outfit in the recent years.
The £92 million-rated star has made over 150 appearances for the Gunners, bagging 36 goals and 30 assists.
As the heartbeat of the team, he orchestrates their attacking play with remarkable fluency.
His boundless enthusiasm shines through in his tireless pressing from the front, setting the tone for the whole squad.
At just 26, he stands as the deserving leader of team.
In the absence of Bukayo Saka, he is the main source of creativity for the Gunners.
Mikel Arteta and his men suffered a 2-0 loss to Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday.
Despite putting in a determined effort, they were unable to silence the Magpies.
On the other hand, United will have the advantage of a seven-day break before their next match.
They must capitalise on this extra rest and showcase their energy on Sunday.
With their elimination from the Carabao Cup, the FA Cup now represents their best opportunity to lift a trophy this season.
Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to start at the base of the midfield.
The young duo will need to keep Odegaard in check, as he possesses the vision to create crucial goal-scoring opportunities for the hosts.
Stats from transfermarkt.com
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .
