"I don't think he can reach that level" - Former Arsenal captain claims Odegaard will never match Gunners icon

Former Arsenal midfielder William Gallas has dismissed claims that Martin Odegaard can reach the level of Gunners legend Dennis Begkamp.

The Arsenal skipper has been one of Arsenal's most influential players this season, leading them to the top of the Premier League table.

Despite a 1-0 defeat to relegation threatened Everton on Saturday, Mikel Arteta's men remain five points adrift of second placed Manchester City, with a game in hand over the reigning champions.

The Norwegian has managed eight goals and six assists this campaign, already smashing last season's tally of 12 goal contributions in all competitions.

His sparkling form has earned him comparisons to Gunners legend Bergkamp, who played for the club between 1995 and 2006.

Gallas dismisses Odegaard and Bergkamp comparisons

However, Gallas, whilst acknowledging his talent, doesn't reckon the 24-year-old can reach Bergkamp's heights in a red and white shirt.

He told Genting Casino: "In terms of the comparison to Dennis Bergkamp, I don't think Odegaard can reach that level.

"Dennis Bergkamp was just one of those amazing players. Odegaard is a good player and he's a playmaker for Arsenal, but I don't think he will get to the level of Bergkamp as he was too magnificent.

"I played against him many times and when I was watching Arsenal on the TV, he did some movements that nobody can do, it seemed like it was only him who could do those things.

"He might not reach Bergkamp's level, but Odegaard is someone that has the opportunity to bring the Premier League title to Arsenal."

The former French defender was then asked if he was as good, if not better than ex Arsenal and Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas.

Gallas replied: "When I played with Cesc Fabregas, he was 19 years old. He was just a natural talent for his age.

"When I was at Chelsea I played against him when he was 16 or 17, that’s when he first joined Arsenal, and he played like an experienced player.

"There are not too many players who can be like Cesc Fabregas. The only players I can think of at the minute are Pedri and Gavi at Barcelona.

"But Odegaard is 24-years-old and it's very difficult to compare both players because their styles are not similar.

"For Odegaard to reach that level, it cannot be done in just one season. He has to be there for some time and that’s when we can start comparing."

Topics: Martin Odegaard, Dennis Bergkamp, Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Premier League, Football

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno