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Arsenal's Martin Odegaard Compared to Tottenham Legend Glenn Hoddle

2026-09-10 SPORTS SPORTS, FOOTBALL, ARSENAL
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard on the pitch during a Premier League match

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard on the pitch during a Premier League match

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Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has been compared to Tottenham Hotspur legend Glenn Hoddle by former senior Spurs scout Bryan King. Odegaard has started the current season in stellar form after overcoming previous injury struggles.

“"It looks too easy, doesn't it? You're not going to get tough tackling. He's just like Glenn Hoddle," ujar Bryan King.”

— Martin Odegaard

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard shares remarkable similarities with Tottenham Hotspur legend Glenn Hoddle, according to former senior Tottenham scout Bryan King. The 27-year-old midfielder has captured attention with his phenomenal start to the new campaign, outscoring his entire tally from all competitions last season.

Having struggled with various injuries over the past two years, Odegaard appears to have fully returned to his peak performance levels for the Gunners. His recent displays, particularly in matches like the standout performance against Chelsea, have cemented his status as a pivotal figure in Mikel Arteta's squad.

The comparison drawn to Hoddle represents high praise, though it is one that loyal Tottenham supporters may find difficult to embrace given Hoddle's iconic status in North London history. Hoddle spent 12 years playing for Tottenham's senior team, making 490 appearances and scoring 110 goals.

As Odegaard looks to maintain his momentum, experts and former scouts alike are taking note of his effortless style of play. Maintaining fitness and avoiding further injuries will be crucial for the Norwegian playmaker to sustain his exceptional form throughout the season.

Martin Odegaard Makes Football Look Too Easy

Bryan King highlighted Odegaard's unique ability to glide across the pitch and dictate the tempo of games without appearing to break a sweat. Describing his gameplay, King remarked, "It looks too easy, doesn't it? You're not going to get tough tackling. He's just like Glenn Hoddle."

Reflecting on Odegaard's early career in Norway, King recalled how major European clubs from the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Italy, and England flocked to watch him play. Scouts filled the old press box at Drammen long before the midfielder secured his high-profile move to Real Madrid.

The initial agreement for Odegaard's transfer to Real Madrid included provisions involving his family, showcasing the immense early expectations surrounding his potential. Despite various career twists, his development has ultimately blossomed in the Premier League with Arsenal.

Odegaard's intelligent passing selection and technical brilliance have elevated his game to new heights. As King previously noted, the midfielder is now executing precisely the passes he wants, cementing his reputation at the absolute top of his game.

Legacy and Comparison to Glenn Hoddle

Glenn Hoddle remains widely regarded as one of the greatest English footballers of all time and a true icon of Tottenham Hotspur. He earned 53 caps for the national team after making his debut in 1979, scoring eight goals during his international career.

Following his legendary spell at Tottenham, Hoddle featured under future Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger at Monaco, where he won a league title before later returning to English football with Swindon Town and Chelsea.

While Tottenham fans cherish Hoddle's historical contributions, acknowledging the technical similarities in current rival players highlights the universal appreciation for supreme midfield talent. Odegaard's playing style mirrors the effortless elegance that defined Hoddle's career.

With his current campaign underway, Odegaard aims to replicate the longevity and sustained quality that Hoddle demonstrated over many years. Staying clear of injury setbacks will be the ultimate key to achieving this milestone.

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