Bernardo Silva and Martin Odegaard
Martin Odegaard was furious with Bernardo Silva (Image: TV2)
Bernardo Silva had a brutal four-word message for Martin Odegaard after leaving the Arsenal captain livid when his tackle caused an ankle injury. Odegaard limped out of the stadium following a brutal challenge from the Real Madrid star in Norway's loss to Portugal. The former Manchester City player's tackle meant that Odegaard needed medical attention after the final whistle.
Bernardo held back until Odegaard had already released the ball in one passage of play before striking out at the back of his opponent's leg. Odegaard was furious and openly confronted his former Premier League opponent, expressing his displeasure the next time the duo found themselves in close proximity on the pitch. The 27-year-old later hobbled off the field when the match finished. And asked about the incident post-match, Bernardo said: "It's football, my friend."
Following medical treatment, Odegaard stopped to speak with Norwegian broadcaster TV2, delivering a scathing assessment of the Real Madrid player's tackle.
"It doesn't belong on a football field," he stated. "It's a shame that people do that. It's a head fog from him. Just kicks me down long after I've played the ball away. I don't understand what he's doing."
Odegaard refused to reveal what he had yelled at his rival. "I don't think we should do that on TV," he added, after appearing to shout 'f*** you!' at Bernardo.
Despite experiencing considerable discomfort, Odegaard remained optimistic that the injury wouldn't sideline him. "I hope not," he said. "But I got a knock on my ankle there, so it probably won't be good tonight."
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Martin Odegaard
Martin Odegaard limped off the field (Image: Getty Images)
The moment also provoked fury among Norwegian commentators. "Look at Bernardo Silva. It's completely unnecessary, it's ugly," commentator Simen Stamso Moller said.
Mikel Arteta will be anxious to avoid another injury setback after Germany international Kai Havertz was forced to withdraw from national team duties.
Odegaard's disappointment was compounded by Norway's loss. Joao Felix opened the scoring in Oslo before Manchester City star striker Erling Haaland levelled proceedings in the 51st minute.
Goncalo Ramos quickly restored the visitors' advantage just three minutes later. Cristiano Ronaldo stayed on the bench throughout.