As Arsenal prepares for the pre-season derby clash with Tottenham this afternoon, the Scandinavian connection between Captain Martin Ordegaard and new signing Viktor Gyokeres is becoming evident.
Softfootball has been able to gather the likeness between both players.
Although Gyokeres may have only just arrived in north London, the Swedish striker is already feeling at home thanks in large part to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard.
The 26-year-old completed his long-anticipated move from Sporting CP earlier this summer, arriving off the back of a sensational season in Portugal where he scored 43 goals in all competitions. But adapting to a new club, league, and environment can be daunting. Fortunately for Gyokeres, Odegaard was waiting with a warm welcome.
On the striker's very first day at London Colney, Odegaard handed him a personal letter, an early gesture of leadership that has helped lay the foundation for Gyokeres early adaptation.
Speaking to the media ahead of Thursday's preseason friendly against Tottenham Hotspur, Odegaard explained how his Scandinavian bond with Gyokeres has helped make the transition smoother.
Odegaard told the Arsenal media:
But it's not just about shared origins. Odegaard was quick to point out that the team prides itself on welcoming all new players.
Speaking about welcoming new players to the team, the Arsenal captain added:
That culture has been key for Gyokeres, who is already training with the first team and expected to feature in Thursday's sold-out clash, which is also the first-ever north London derby to take place outside of the UK. Though still early days, Odegaard is impressed by what he's seen so far.