Martin Odegaard: Net Worth, Age, Girlfriend, Career Stats & Biography

Discover everything about Martin Odegaard, the talented Norwegian midfielder for Arsenal. Explore his net worth, girlfriend, career milestones, personal life, and more in this comprehensive biography.

Martin Odegaard, born on December 17, 1998, in Drammen, Norway, has emerged as one of the most promising midfielders in the world of football. Currently playing for Arsenal and the Norwegian national team, Odegaard is known for his remarkable dribbling skills, precision passing, and leadership qualities. His journey from a young talent in Norway to a key player at a top English club has fascinated fans and experts alike.

Profile Summary

Full Name: Martin Odegaard
Nickname: El-Rey
Date of Birth: December 17, 1998
Place of Birth: Drammen, Norway
Nationality: Norwegian
Ethnicity: Norwegian
Height: 1.78m
Marital Status: Unmarried
Parents:
- Father: Hans Erik Ødegaard
- Mother: Lene Cecilie Ødegaard
Instagram: odegaard.98
Current Team: Arsenal
Club Jersey Number: 8
National Team: Norway
Youth Team(s): Strømsgodset, Real Madrid
Position(s): Attacking Midfielder
Preferred Foot: Left
Playing Style: Intricate Creative Playmaking, Team Leader
Market Value: Attacking Midfielder

Martin Odegaard’s Early Life

Martin Odegaard was raised in the tranquil neighborhood of Toppenhaug in Drammen, Norway. Before Odegaard’s rise, the city was more famous for its picturesque fjords than for producing football talents. Growing up in a loving family, Odegaard developed an early passion for football, often practicing on the makeshift pitch near his home.

Reflecting on his upbringing, Odegaard has shared, “I was fortunate to have my dad, Hans Erik, as my coach in my childhood club, Drammen Strong, and later at Strømsgodset until I was 13. He has always been my biggest supporter.” His father’s influence was pivotal in his development as a player.

Martin Odegaard’s Family Background

Martin Odegaard’s Mother

Lene Cecilie Ødegaard, Martin’s mother, maintains a low profile and is known for her calm demeanor. She has played an essential role in his life, supporting him throughout his career while largely staying out of the limelight. Odegaard acknowledges her significant influence, stating, “Her support has always been my anchor.”

Martin Odegaard’s Father

Hans Erik Ødegaard, Martin’s father, is a former professional football player who played as a central midfielder for Sandefjord and Strømsgodset. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching and serves as Odegaard’s unofficial manager and agent. His father’s experience and insight have been invaluable, ensuring that Martin stays focused and dedicated to his football career.

Recalling his childhood, Martin said, “People think my dad was pushy, but it was quite the opposite. I was the one pushing him. He knew things other parents didn’t, which made me want to learn from him.”

Martin Odegaard’s Siblings

Martin has three siblings: two sisters, Emilie and Mari, and a brother named Kristoffer. While Kristoffer is health-conscious and focused on fitness, Emilie and Mari prefer to maintain their privacy away from social media. Despite their lesser-known status, Martin has expressed gratitude for his supportive family, emphasizing their role in his journey.

Martin Odegaard’s Club Career

Martin Odegaard made his professional debut for Strømsgodset at just 15 years old. His exceptional talent quickly caught the attention of major European clubs, leading to his transfer to Real Madrid in 2015. During his time at Real Madrid, Odegaard went on several loan spells to gain valuable experience.

Loan Stints

Heerenveen (2017-2018): Odegaard spent time at SC Heerenveen in the Eredivisie, where he began to showcase his creative abilities and playmaking skills.
Vitesse (2018-2019): His next loan was at Vitesse, where he further honed his skills, becoming a key player.
Real Sociedad (2019-2020): Odegaard’s loan to Real Sociedad was particularly successful, where he was instrumental in helping the team finish in the top half of La Liga.

Arsenal

In January 2021, Odegaard made an impactful impression while on loan at Arsenal. His performances earned him a permanent transfer in August 2021. Since then, he has become an essential part of the Arsenal squad, known for his creativity, vision, and leadership on the pitch. His appointment as the club captain underscores his importance and influence within the team.

Martin Odegaard’s International Career

Odegaard made history by debuting for the Norwegian national team at just 15 years old on August 27, 2014. This achievement marked him as the youngest player ever to represent Norway. He has since participated in numerous qualifying campaigns for prestigious tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship.

In March 2021, he was appointed captain of the national team, a role that demonstrates his growing influence and leadership. Despite Norway’s challenges in qualifying for major tournaments, Odegaard remains optimistic and focused on guiding his team to success.

Reflecting on his debut, he recalled, “I remember the roar of the crowd when I stepped onto the field for the last 20 minutes of a Euro 2016 qualifying match against Bulgaria. That sound still resonates with me.”

Martin Odegaard’s Education

Due to his early dedication to football, Martin Odegaard’s formal education details are sparse. Joining Strømsgodset’s first team at 15, he devoted significant time to his football career, which likely impacted his traditional educational path. Nonetheless, he benefited from various youth football programs, allowing him to learn from experienced players and coaches. This practical experience laid the foundation for his future success.

Martin Odegaard’s Personal Life

Martin Odegaard’s Girlfriend

As of 2024, Martin Odegaard is in a relationship with Helene Spilling, a talented dancer who gained fame after winning Norway’s version of Strictly Come Dancing, titled “Skal vi Danse.” Born on April 17, 1996, in Gjerdrum, Norway, Spilling is 2.5 years older than Odegaard. With a significant following of 164k on Instagram, she often shares glimpses of their relationship online.

The couple frequently attends events together, showcasing their affection for one another. Helene currently divides her time between London and Norway, supporting Odegaard as he continues to excel at Arsenal.

Martin Odegaard’s Hobbies

Off the pitch, Martin Odegaard is known for his light-hearted personality and enjoys spending time with family and friends. He has a penchant for cooking, particularly making smoothies, and he values fitness, adhering to a strict diet and training regimen to maintain optimal health.

Previously, Odegaard was in a relationship with Oda Burud, a fellow Norwegian footballer, but has since moved on to his current relationship with Spilling.

Martin Odegaard’s Playing Style

Martin Odegaard is celebrated for his exceptional passing ability, imaginative playmaking, and keen football intelligence. As an attacking midfielder, he controls the game’s tempo, creating opportunities and making crucial passes that lead to goals. His dribbling skills and close ball control allow him to navigate through tight spaces, evading defenders effectively.

Additionally, Odegaard is known for his strong work ethic and tactical awareness, making him a dynamic player who can influence matches. His leadership qualities have made him a vital asset to both Arsenal and the Norwegian national team.

Martin Odegaard’s Salary and Net Worth

Martin Odegaard signed a lucrative contract with Arsenal, valued at approximately $62.4 million, with an annual salary of $12.48 million. His earnings reflect his significance to the team’s performance and his captaincy role. While salary figures can vary depending on sources, they typically include endorsements and performance bonuses that contribute to his overall wealth.

Martin Odegaard’s Family Clothing Business

Interestingly, Martin Odegaard comes from a family with a background in the clothing business. His family operates a clothing company in Norway. While Odegaard has jokingly remarked that he has no intention of managing the family business, his family’s entrepreneurial spirit has undoubtedly influenced him.

Martin Odegaard’s Time with Cristiano Ronaldo

During his time at Real Madrid, Martin Odegaard had the unique opportunity to train and play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. Joining the club at just 16 years old, he absorbed valuable insights and skills from one of the greatest footballers of all time. Although his first-team appearances were limited, the experience significantly contributed to his development as a player.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Martin Odegaard’s net worth? Martin Odegaard’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million, largely due to his football contracts, endorsements, and sponsorship deals.
How tall is Martin Odegaard? Martin Odegaard stands at 1.78 meters (5 feet 10 inches) tall.
What position does Martin Odegaard play? Odegaard primarily plays as an attacking midfielder, known for his playmaking abilities and vision.
When did Martin Odegaard start his professional career? Martin Odegaard began his professional career with Strømsgodset at the age of 15.
Who is Martin Odegaard’s girlfriend? Martin Odegaard is currently in a relationship with Helene Spilling, a Norwegian dancer.
How many clubs has Martin Odegaard played for? Martin Odegaard has played for several clubs, including Strømsgodset, Real Madrid, Heerenveen, Vitesse, Real Sociedad, and Arsenal.
What is Martin Odegaard’s playing style? Odegaard is known for his intricate playmaking, creativity, and leadership on the pitch, making him a key player for both club and country.
When did Martin Odegaard make his international debut? Odegaard made his international debut for Norway on August 27, 2014, at the age of 15.
Has Martin Odegaard won any major trophies? While he has yet to win a major international trophy with Norway, Odegaard has won titles at the club level, including the Copa del Rey with Real Sociedad.
What are Martin Odegaard’s career ambitions? Martin Odegaard aims to lead Norway to success in international competitions while helping Arsenal achieve domestic and European glory.

Conclusion

Martin Odegaard’s journey from a young boy in Drammen to a prominent figure in world football is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. As he continues to develop at Arsenal and lead the Norwegian national team, fans eagerly await the next chapters in his remarkable career. With his skillset and leadership, Odegaard is poised to leave an indelible mark on the sport for years to come.