Exclusive: ‘He has an X-factor!’ – Odegaard hails rising star and Norway team-mate Bobb

ByEurosport

Published 26/03/2024 at 13:42 GMT

The performances of Oscar Bobb have been one of the stories of the season for Manchester City as he has become a key contributor for Pep Guardiola’s side. Speaking exclusively to Discovery Norway, Arsenal star Martin Odegaard was full of praise for Bobb and the understanding that the pair have already managed to strike up during their time with Norway’s national team.Oscar Bobb.

Image credit: Getty Images

Martin Odegaard believes fellow Norway star Oscar Bobb “has an X-factor”, and he has enjoyed playing with him during the past six months.

Manchester City midfielder Bobb has broken out this season and become a regular option used by manager Pep Guardiola, making nine Premier League appearances with a further nine in cup competitions.

His rise at City saw him make his international debut for Norway in October, and last week against the Czech Republic he scored his second goal for his country with a wonderful solo effort.

Speaking exclusively to Discovery Norway after the game, Arsenal captain Odegaard was full of praise for the youngster.

He was asked about the comparisons that some have made between Bobb and his Arsenal team-mate Bukayo Saka.

“They are two fantastic players, and two players who are very good with the ball.” Odegaard said.

“Oscar is perhaps more of a ball player and has been more of a midfielder, so a slightly different type.

“I have played with Saka for a long time, I know him well and it [our connection] works very well.

“Now I played with Oscar last time, and felt we had a very good link. We found each other and understood each other.

“It’s always nice to play with quality players. You could see the move he showed against the Czech Republic. He has an X-factor.”

Speaking to TV2 after the game, Bobb said it was “a dream” to play next to the Arsenal No. 10.

“It is a dream to play with Martin. Having one of the world’s best No. 10s next to me makes it much easier.” Bobb said.

Norway return to action on Tuesday against Slovakia in another friendly, and manager Stale Solbakken dismissed any notion of resting both Odegaard and star forward Erling Haaland ahead of the big clash between Manchester City and Arsenal on Sunday.

“I basically don’t take that into account,” Solbakken told reporters on Monday. “As a rule, I don’t take it into account other than common sense.

“There are five days until that match. I have spoken to both of them. Both are very eager to play the game. I think we should be happy about that.”

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