Leonid Slutsky insists that Martin Odegaard is ready to join an elite club and show his quality.
The Norway international joined Real Sociedad in last summer’s transfer window, signing a two-year loan deal at La Real.
However, his former coach at Vitesse, where the 21-year-old had a loan spell has made it clear that Odegaard is mentally ready for his turn at the Bernabeu.
“I am sure that Martin [Odegaard] is ready to play for Real Madrid today,” Slutsky told EFE in an interview.
“He is already a top level footballer. He is capable of fighting for a place in any team in the world.
“If Madrid give him the opportunity, Martin will end up playing.”
Adaptation to Zinedine Zidane’s squad will be no problem for Odegaard according the now Russia coach, who believes the versatility of the player is a plus to him.
“When I saw how he played at the Santiago Bernabeu, I was absolutely convinced that he has the individual quality to play for Madrid,” Slutsky added.
“The system will not be a problem for him. He can play as No.10 or on the wing, if possible on the right.
“It does not matter if it is a 4-4-2 or a 4-4-3.
“Looking for a defect, ideally he should be faster. He lacks a bit of initial speed, he is not like [Kylian] Mbappe.”
Slutsky also hailed the midfielder’s attitude on and off the pitch, aside his reading of the game.
“He is very strong mentally,” Slutsky noted. “He has great self-confidence and can play consistently for a long time.
“He takes care of himself, eats properly and is hyper professional. Almost like a robot.
“Martin has one of the highest levels of professionalism I’ve ever seen.”
