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Sat 2 May16:30

Arsenal’s Piero Hincapie shares why Martin Odegaard could actually hurt Atletico Madrid

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At a Glance:

  • Piero Hincapie lauds Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard.
  • Mentions how Odegaard could be key against Atletico Madrid.
  • Odegaard’s record vs Atletico Madrid.

Mikel Arteta will be hoping Martin Odegaard is at his brilliant best in Arsenal’s upcoming contest against Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final.

It is likely that Odegaard will start against Atletico Madrid and as the Gunners’ captain, the fans will be hoping for him to produce a performance reminiscent of his heroics against Porto in 2023.

The Norwegian has not had the best of seasons but the best players usually step up when it matters most regardless of the circumstances.

Considering Odegaard wasn’t great against Newcastle United either, perhaps fans would be worried about whether he turns up in the Spanish capital. However, Piero Hincapie has sung his praises.

Piero Hincapie says Martin Odegaard is ‘extraordinary’ ahead of Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal

Speaking to Diario AS, Hincapie was quizzed about how Odegaard’s presence could help Arsenal against Atletico Madrid, having played alongside him 17 times.

Hincapie and Odegaard’s record at ArsenalStats
Matches17
Wins11
Draws3
Losses3
All statistics via Transfermarkt – correct as of 28/04/2026

“He’s truly a player with extraordinary qualities. Obviously, he gives us a lot in attack. But we have a very large squad, so any player who plays in his position can do it very well.

The Ecuadorian emphasised how key the Gunners skipper is to their side, even though he stressed that the team is not reliant on one player, saying: “With different qualities, but still helping us. I don’t think it will affect us at all, but we do miss a player with those qualities on the field.”

The good news for Arsenal is Odegaard looked bright against Manchester City and he may know himself that there would be no better time to silence his critics than against Atletico Madrid.

Martin Odegaard record vs Atletico Madrid

The 27-year-old has played against Atletico Madrid twice in his career.

Odegaard’s record vs Atletico MadridStats
Matches2
Wins1
Draws0
Losses1
Goals1
Assists0
All statistics via Transfermarkt – correct as of 28/04/2026

Odegaard has won and lost one game apiece while also scoring once.

Hincapie and his Arsenal teammates will be hoping that Odegaard has the game of his life against Atletico Madrid.

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Srinivas Sadhanand is a writer for Read Arsenal and Read Man City, with over eight years of experience as a sports journalist. He has worked for established companies such as GRV Media, The Economic Times, Urban Pitch and Sportskeeda among several others. From interview athletes to writing detailed tactical pieces and covering the impact streetwear and music in football, he has many strings to his bow as a journalist. Being a lifelong Manchester City fan, he specialises in writing about them and the Premier League in particular. Away from the desk, he loves watching European football, cricket, films, listening to music and exploring new foods.

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