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Martin Odegaard faces a fresh dilemma about his Real Madrid future following their appointment of Carlo Ancelotti, a report has suggested.

Odegaard spent the second half of the season on loan at Arsenal after struggling for gametime at the Bernabeu. He was expected to return to the Spanish capital with the promise of a bigger role, but that could now change. Madrid’s decision to lure Ancelotti from Everton has cast new doubt over Odegaard’s future.

The Norway international was signed by Madrid during Ancelotti’s first spell at the club. But, as the Daily Mirror report, that deal was against the coach’s wishes.

Ancelotti wrote in his 2016 book Quiet Leadership: “When Florentino [Perez] buys a Norwegian footballer, you simply have to accept it.

“Furthermore, the president decided that he would play three games with the first team as a public relations exercise.

“He could be the best player in the world, but I don’t care because he was not a player who I asked for. That signing was to do with PR.”

Consequently, the Mirror claim Odegaard’s future is “far more uncertain” than it would have been if Zinedine Zidane had remained in charge.

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While admitting that the coach could have changed his opinion of the attacking midfielder, the report speculates “Arsenal could be grateful beneficiaries”. They have always been interested in keeping Odegaard on a permanent basis.

Mikel Arteta admitted during the season that the Gunners would wait until the campaign’s end to determine their plans. Now, though, they could have fresh reason for optimism.

So far, Real president Perez has been unwilling to sell his 2015 investment. However, there could be more twists and turns following Ancelotti’s return to Spain.

Odegaard drops Haaland hint

It seems Odegaard has still been thinking about a future at the Bernabeu, as he has commented on the chances of international teammate Erling Haaland joining him there.

When asked if he would like Haaland to join him at Madrid, Odegaard said: “Of course.

“I ask him sometimes about it, but he doesn’t say too much about his future. At least, nothing that he will share with you here.”

Haaland will be one of the most in-demand players in the summer thanks to his exploits with Borussia Dortmund. However, it is questionable whether Madrid would be able to afford him amid a tricky financial situation.

For now, they may just have to stick to being international teammates.

READ MORE: Arteta names crucial weapon he has given Odegaard to sway Arsenal call

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