Asked about the Real player whom he would without hesitation recruit, the Gunners captain dropped: “Vinícius Jr. is the best player in the world today. »» A massive compliment, all the more disturbing six days before their duel in C1. Ødegaard, who rubbed shoulders with the Brazilian in Madrid between 2018 and 2021, knows his destructive potential better than anyone.
Ødegaard balance: “I would sign Vinícius at arsenal”
With 19 goals and 13 assists this season, Vinícius (24) confirms his status as a dribbling and goals machine. Its impact was decisive in the Madrid triumph in C1 2024 … and could be again against Arsenal. “He has everything: speed, technique, composure. It is a nightmare for the defenses ”, Insist Ødegaard, aware of the danger. Scandinavian seems to be more wary of the international Auriverde than from Kylian Mbappé, however much more prolific in recent weeks.
Behind these praises hides a tactical reality: Ødegaard knows that neutralizing Vinícius will be the key to the success of Arsenal. But his admiration seems sincere. The two players, spotted very young by Real, share a similar course. “We grew up together in this club. Vini has always had this spark ”, confides the Norwegian, passed by the Fabrica at 16 years old.
A tribute … and a subliminal message?
While Vinícius did not abandon the idea of conquering the Ballon d'Or 2025, does Ødegaard try to destabilize it before the shock? “No, it's a deserved tribute”, tempers a relative of Arsenal. However, by publicly qualifying the Brazilian as
“Number 1 threat”the playmaker forces his team to bet everything on his marking.
This high -risk duel (April 8) could seal the European future of two clubs… and Vinícius. Because if Arsenal were to eliminate it, the invitation to reach the Emirates Stadium would make sense. In the meantime, the Brazilian remains focused on one objective: “Win the C1, again and again. »»
