Martin Odegaard has played down the escalating rivalry with Manchester City ahead of Sunday's Premier League showdown, insisting his friendship with Erling Haaland remains unaffected. The Arsenal captain expects 'heat' on the pitch but not off it, despite Haaland's 'stay humble' jibe at Mikel Arteta in September's 2-2 draw.
Odegaard, who shares a close bond with Haaland from their time with Norway, revealed they stay in touch via a group chat. 'We are good friends,' he said. 'We haven't spoken about the game, but he is a good friend, so I speak to him.' The 26-year-old dismissed the 'stay humble' comment as a product of high emotions during the match.
Arteta also brushed off the incident, stating he does not hold grudges. 'I don't take anything that happens on the pitch personally,' he said. 'It stays there and it's full of emotions.' The Gunners boss faces a potential injury blow with goalkeeper David Raya struggling with a muscle issue after missing the midweek win over Girona.
Second-placed Arsenal know defeat on Sunday would leave City just three points behind. Odegaard acknowledged the rivalry but stressed the importance of focusing on the game. 'It is just three points and that's the goal,' he said. The Norwegian also admitted he needs to improve his finishing, having scored only once in the Premier League this season.
