Odegaard: “When I joined Real Madrid I faced heavy criticism”

Real Madrid midfielder Martin Odegaard, who is with Real Sociedad on a two-year loan deal, talked to TV2 and explained what it felt like to join Madrid at such a young age.

“I don’t mind hearing negative criticism about me. When I started in Norway and I was 15 years old and received so much attention and positive feedback. Then, when I joined Real Madrid I faced heavy criticism. Perhaps very heavy criticism. I don’t think it’s always a matter of black or white, you can also write things that are in between,” said Odegaard.

The Norwegian player also explained that he’s staying humble even after his brilliant start to the 2019-2020 season.

“Sincerely I don’t care much about being in front pages of the newspapers. I just do my job and I enjoy playing football. These things happen when you play professional football. You draw so much attention, especially here in Spain. It comes naturally for me but it’s not important,” said Odegaard.

He also insisted on staying with Real Sociedad past this current season. Odegaard wants to keep playing for the Basque side next year as he tries to establish himself as a potential starter for Real Madrid in the 2021-2022 season.

“I think this long loan deal is very positive for me. It’s important to play minutes and embrace responsibilities for young players. I want some stability, it’s hard when you change clubs and countries every season. To be in San Sebastian for two seasons allows me to be more calm and focused on improving my game and enjoy football,” concluded Odegaard.