Odegaard optimistic as Arsenal face Atletico Madrid’s test in Champions League
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has expressed confidence that the Gunners can benefit from their previous run to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals as they push for a place in this season’s final.
The North London side fell short at the same stage last term after being eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain, but having reached the last four again, they are now targeting victory over Atletico Madrid to secure their first final appearance since 2006.
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Speaking before the first-leg clash in Spain on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the club captain highlighted the team’s growth and readiness, stating: “I think we’re stronger in different ways.”
“Obviously we have some new players in as well, and I feel like we’re stronger. I feel like we learned from all of those experiences last year and are probably even more prepared now for this. I feel like we’re stronger in many different ways. We’re up for it and we’re ready to go.
“We’re really confident. We have full belief in what we’re doing. The energy of the group is great, we’re in a great position, and we’re ready for tomorrow.”
Arsenal’s opponents head into the tie in strong form, having already knocked out Tottenham Hotspur and FC Barcelona on their way to the semi-finals, as they chase a return to the final for the first time in a decade.
Odegaard acknowledged the challenge awaiting them, noting: “They’re a great team, it’s a strong team,” Martin said. “They’re very competitive and they’ve worked with this manager for a long time.
Odegaard wary of Atleti’s threat
“Really, really strong team, in a great stadium with good supporters. They’re strong at home, so it’s going to be a great battle and looking forward to it,” he said.
The Norwegian midfielder has recently returned to full fitness after picking up an injury in the previous round against Sporting CP. He admitted that time away from action was difficult but also served as motivation to come back stronger.
“It’s probably the hardest thing for a football player to be out injured. That’s tough but it’s a part of the life as a footballer, as an athlete, you have to deal with those moments and I think you’ve got to see the positive sides, you’ve got to see where you can learn something.
“Also, you get even hungrier to get back on the pitch, and you’ve got to take the positives and learn from it.”
