“They keep describing this as a welcome to the family feeling” - Christian Norgaard reveals 2 Arsenal players who convinced him to join Gunners

Christian Norgaard has revealed that Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard and ex-Brentford teammate David Raya played a role in convincing him to join the Gunners this summer. The north Londoners seem to have made a smart move in signing the Denmark international from the Bees for a reported initial fee of £10 million.

Raya and Norgaard are well acquainted with one another, having shared the pitch on 107 occasions across competitions for Brentford. Meanwhile, Odegaard also seemingly provided insights into what life at the Emirates would look like.

Speaking to the club's official media channels after signing, Norgaard said (via GOAL):

“They both spoke so highly of [the club]. They keep describing this as a welcome to the family feeling. I think it's really nice when a player like Martin speaks highly of not only the players, not only the coaches, but also the whole staff around the club and the guys in the media department."

“There are just so many people working in this organisation and he spoke very highly of all of them, so I’m looking forward to meeting each and every one.”

Norgaard is an experienced defensive midfield player who will most likely act as the second choice in this position to Martin Zubimendi. It was a crucial signing for Arsenal following the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.

To date, the 31-year-old has made 122 appearances in the Premier League, bagging 11 goals and 13 assists.

Arsenal and Chelsea agree fee for Noni Madueke as winger prepares for summer move- Reports

Arsenal have been linked with a move for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke for a couple of weeks now. A report from BBC Sport says that the Gunners and the Blues have agreed on a transfer fee, and the finer details are left to discuss.

This is a huge boost in the north Londoners' approach for the player, after already having agreed personal terms. The report claims that Arsenal will be spending just over £50 million to acquire the England international's services.

While the deal seems close to completion, several fans have been questioning the amount of money being spent, given that Madueke will play a squad role. His favourite right flank is occupied by Bukayo Saka, and it is expected that the Gunners' star will continue to be preferred in this role.

As for Madueke, he's made 92 appearances across competitions for Chelsea, bagging 20 goals and nine assists.

About the author

Rahul has been a European football journalist for Sportskeeda since 2023. A B.B.A. L.L.B. graduate, he captained his university football team and also played for Boca Juniors Football School during his initial years, and also coached his university's girls team. He always aims to translate his tactical awareness, knowledge of the sport and first-hand experience into well-researched articles for his readers.

A follower of the beautiful game since 2014, Rahul is an avid Arsenal and a match-going Bengaluru FC fan. His favorite footballer is Mesut Ozil due to his love for nimble-footed playmakers, while his favorite manager is the legendary Arsene Wenger owing to the Frenchman's attractive style of football.

Rahul, whose favorite FIFA World Cup moment is Lionel Messi lifting the trophy in 2022, has interviewed grassroots expert Tom Byer in the past and gained insight into Japanese football. He also believes Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland can rule the footballing world and take Ronaldo and Messi's place.

When he is not writing, Rahul likes to spend his time playing football, following the Indian Super League and watching other sports. He is also a huge cricket fan and supports Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

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Edited by Rahul Naresh