Martin Ødegaard admits ‘painful’ truth after Arsenal’s Champions League exit

Gidibam Web2 weeks ago

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Image credit: Getty Images

Martin Ødegaard wore a look of dejection at full-time as Arsenal’s Champions League journey came to a heartbreaking end against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday night.

The Arsenal captain came agonisingly close to levelling the tie within the opening ten minutes, only to see his low-driven effort brilliantly denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma—just one of several outstanding saves from the towering Italian keeper that kept the Gunners at bay.

Despite Arsenal’s spirited start, their European campaign concluded in Paris with a 2-1 defeat on the night, 3-1 on aggregate, extinguishing hopes of a first Champions League final appearance since 2006.

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“It’s very painful, to be honest,” Ødegaard said post-match. “We started the game really well, on the front foot, took control, and created some big moments. But again, in the boxes, that’s where games are decided, and we weren’t good enough. Credit to their goalkeeper—he made some unbelievable saves.”

Ruben Amorim on Martin Ødegaard — ***Martin Ødegaard (Image credit: Getty Images)***

Ødegaard acknowledged the team’s overall performance but pointed to crucial moments as the deciding factor. “We did a lot of good things, but in the end, we have to be better in the boxes. We need to be sharper and more clinical, and also avoid conceding the goals we did.”

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While the immediate aftermath was filled with disappointment, the Norwegian captain highlighted the broader progress the club has made, urging unity and resilience as Arsenal look ahead.

“We have to stick together, stay strong, and learn from this,” he added. “Right now, it’s painful. We wanted to go all the way and bring trophies to this club and to our supporters. We’ve had tough moments during my time here, and every time, we’ve come back stronger. That’s the only thing you can do.

“It’s a massive disappointment—I know everyone feels it. But we have to keep going, keep improving, keep learning. Stay together, lift each other up, and make sure we go again.”