Brentford head coach Thomas Frank has claimed that Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is nearing Kevin De Bruyne's levels with his performances early on this season.
The Norway international has become a fan favourite at the Emirates Stadium ever since his initial loan arrival from Real Madrid in January 2021, notably endearing himself to the Gunners faithful with a goal against rivals Tottenham. He joined on a permanent deal that summer.
Like many of his teammates, Odegaard has started the new season in fine form and has taken his game to another level.
His performances have not gone unnoticed by Bees boss Frank, who compared him to Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne ahead of the Gunners' trip to the Gtech Community Stadium on Sunday.
Speaking of Arsenal's improvements, Frank said: "I know [William] Saliba came back [from loan], [Gabriel] Jesus has been a fantastic signing.
"And I think Odegaard, the way he plays at this moment in time, De Bruyne is a decent player, but he’s not far off him in terms of performances."
Despite his clearly influential standing on and off the pitch at Arsenal, Odegaard is surprisingly yet to register an assist so far this season.
He has, however, scored three goals already this campaign - nearly half of the seven he totalled last term.
Arsenal will head into the September international break top of the table with a win at Brentford. They host Spurs, who currently sit two points head of them in second place, on October 1.
Source : 90min