3 Real Madrid players who have to stand out during pre-season
By Sudhir Salvi
MARTIN ODEGAARD – REAL MADRID MIDFIELDER
Martin Odegaard was called back to Real Madrid by Zinedine Zidane, who persuaded the club to cut short his loan spell while at Real Sociedad. The Norwegian midfielder did not get any noteworthy opportunities under the Frenchman in the first half of the season, therefore wanting to leave on another loan and subsequently seeing his wish granted, with Arsenal pouncing on him.
Odegaard was a key fixture in Mikel Arteta’s squad which did much better in the second half of last season and progressed to the semi-final of the UEFA Europa League. He is set to return to the Spanish capital for the upcoming season and will receive opportunities this season. Given Ancelotti’s playing style, Odegaard could play a role similar to that of James Rodriguez during the 2014/15 season.
All eyes will be on him to deliver the goods, now that the club will have a proper tactical system. The 22-year-old is a great passer of the ball, a good set-piece taker and displays brilliant attacking sense as well. Having said that, there will be a bucketload of opportunities in pre-season for the former Heerenveen loanee and time will tell if he will succeed at the Spanish capital.
Do you think the player will take his chances with both hands?