Norway coach Stale Solbakken says Martin Odegaard leaving Real Madrid for Arsenal was good for all parties.

Gunners captain Odegaard is playing the best football of his career this season.

Solbakken said of his Norway captain: “It was very good for Martin's development, and Real Madrid have managed without him.

"They have some very promising young midfielders, two Frenchmen who have done very well, and veterans who are maintaining their level. Selling him at that time was the right decision for the club and even more so for Martin."

Solbakken, whose team is in Marbella today to prepare for the Euro 2024 qualifying match against Spain, nevertheless believes that if Odegaard had stayed at Real Madrid, he could be captain as he is now of Arsenal.