Martin Ødegaard stays at Arsenal after transfer rumors denied

Martin Ødegaard will stay at Arsenal after reports linking him to Galatasaray were denied. The Norway captain, 27, remains 'very happy' at the club following a title-winning Premier League season.

What happened?

Reports in Turkey claimed Ødegaard’s agent, Bjorn Kvarme, was spotted in Istanbul, sparking transfer speculation. However, sources close to the player confirmed Kvarme was in the U.S., supporting Ødegaard as he led Norway at the World Cup.

Ødegaard became just the third player since 1966 to record an assist in his first three World Cup appearances. His performances have reinforced his importance to both club and country.

Why it matters for Martin Ødegaard

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has repeatedly backed Ødegaard, dismissing any talk of a captaincy change. The midfielder, who overcame shoulder and knee injuries last season, remains a key figure despite competition from Eberechi Eze.

His teammates also voted unanimously to keep him as captain. Ødegaard’s leadership extends to the Norway national team, where he assumed the role a year before joining Arsenal.

What comes next?

Ødegaard will focus on Norway’s World Cup campaign, with a crucial match against Brazil on Sunday. If Norway exits, he will begin his summer break before returning to Arsenal’s pre-season training in late July.

The Gunners’ pre-season schedule includes friendlies against Girona on August 1 and Real Betis on August 5. Ødegaard’s continued presence strengthens Arsenal’s ambitions for the upcoming season.