Martin Odegaard praised for his on-pitch speech immediately after missing out on Premier League title

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard delivered a rousing speech on the Emirates Stadium pitch just minutes after missing out on the Premier League title.

The Gunners went into the final day of the season knowing they had to beat Everton, while Manchester City needed to drop points at home to West Ham.

And while Mikel Arteta's side did their job, winning 2-1 courtesy of a late Kai Havertz's strike, City's 3-1 victory was all they had to do to win their fourth consecutive Premier League crown.

It was therefore a devastating end to the season for the Gunners, who fell narrowly short despite dropping points in just two of their 18 games in 2024.

But while they missed out on lifting their first top division title since the Invincibles season of 2004, Odegaard was quick to remind Arsenal supporters of how far they came this season - and that they will be back for another shot at the Premier League next term.

After picking up the microphone on the Emirates Stadium pitch, the Gunners captain exclaimed: "We have changed the club. I think you all believe in us now. We are hungry for more.

"To be honest, I can't wait to come back after the break. We have to use the break to come back even stronger, even more hungry, and push to win everything.

Martin Odegaard speaking so well on the pitch to the crowd. "We have changed the club. I think you all believe in us now. We are hungry for more." Huge applause.

— Amy Lawrence (@amylawrence71) May 19, 2024

"We're all a little disappointed at the moment. We were so close. I am proud of everyone at this club when I see our progress ... thank you for believing in us."

Gunners fans praised Odegaard on social media, with one writing: "We believe Martin. We really do now."

A second added: "This team will win the league or the Champions League, I honestly believe it's a matter of time like it was with Liverpool."

A third wrote: "My captain. Arsenal's POTY."

And a fourth said: "Second stinks, but easily the best team of my 14 years as a fan."