Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has warned Erling Haaland to expect a phone call if his side gets the better of Manchester City.
The two Danish superstars go head-to-head at the Etihad on Wednesday night, with the winner likely getting their hands on their Premier League trophy. The Gunners head to Manchester five points clear of the champions, although they have played two games more than their rivals.
But a win over City would put the title destiny back in their hands and make a first title since 2004 tantalisingly close. Should Arsenal - who have failed to win their last three - stumble again though, Pep Guardiola will be on the brink of yet another league championship.
Much of the build-up has surrounded the pair of international team-mates, who are integral to their club’s fortunes. Haaland’s contribution to City is clear - he has a staggering 48 goals in 42 appearances and is cruising to the Golden Boot in his first season in English football.
But Odegaard’s impact in North London has been similarly significant, with the former Real Madrid star in the running for Player of the Year. Which great Dane comes out on top then, could have a huge sway on the destination of the points, and with it the title.
And Odegaard has told the City striker that if his side do head back to the capital with all three points, a call may be coming his way. As part of an interview with Gunners legend Tony Adams, the former central defender asked if he could have a chat with the top-flight’s top scorer, if his old side do the business.
“Man City - here we go, let’s get on to that. You’ve got your mate [ Erling Haaland ] as well, by the way, call him when we beat them! Can I call him for you? When you’ve got a hat-trick!” Adams said.
Quick as a flash Odegaard replied: “Then we can call him, for sure! It will be a great game, I think everyone is looking forward to this game. Two good teams.”
Arsenal will be without William Saliba for the showdown, but Adams - a winner of a league title in three different decades - offered to deputise in his own unique fashion. “I’d love to give you a hand, to be honest with you, I’ll find your mate and give him a good kick - fairly of course!”
Odegaard added: “It will be a great game, two great teams, a lot of good players. These are the games you want to play, you want to play the big games, you want to fight for things, so yeah, we’re just looking forward to it and I think it’s important we really enjoy this game and play with a smile.
“No matter what happens on Wednesday there is still so much to play for,” Odegaard insisted. “Both teams have so many tough games after, so it’s not like a final, but of course it’s an important game, it’s important to get the momentum.
“As I said, the team is confident, even though we didn’t win the last three games now I think the team is confident. I feel like we can go there and do something.”
Haaland has been somewhat more reserved in the days leading to kick-off, but tweeted on the eve of the clash with a simple message. “Cannot. Wait.”
