Arsenal’s title hopes have suffered a significant blow as captain Martin Ødegaard is set to miss an extended period due to an ankle injury sustained while playing for Norway.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the news on Wednesday, stating that Ødegaard will be out “for a while.”
Ødegaard, 25, hobbled off during Norway’s Nations League defeat of Austria in Oslo on September 9.
The midfielder returned to London on crutches, sparking concerns over the severity of the injury.
Arteta’s update ahead of Arsenal’s opening Champions League game against Atalanta in Bergamo on Thursday has heightened worries among Gunners fans.
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Ødegaard’s absence was already felt in Sunday’s North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur, which Arsenal won 2-1.
The Norwegian midfielder’s creative spark and leadership have been instrumental in Arsenal’s strong start to the season.
His injury adds pressure on Arteta to find alternative solutions and maintain the team’s momentum.
Arsenal’s Champions League campaign kicks off against Atalanta on Thursday.
Ødegaard’s injury will be a significant test of the team’s depth and resilience.
Arsenal fans took to social media to express their disappointment and well-wishes for Ødegaard’s recovery.
The club’s medical staff will work closely with the midfielder to ensure a swift and successful rehabilitation.
Arteta will need to rely on other players to step up and fill the void left by Ødegaard’s injury.
The Spanish manager’s tactical adjustments will be crucial in navigating the challenging landscape of the Premier League and Champions League.
Arteta said:
“The scans showed that he’s got some damage especially on one of the ligaments in the ankle.”
“It’s something quite significant so we’re going to lose him for a while.”
Arteta, whose side are second in the league and two points behind Manchester City, said he hoped it would not be months “but let’s see.”
“He’s our captain. He’s been one of the biggest and best players in our team.”
“Our identity is very linked to how he plays and behaves. It’s a big test for the team to see how able we are to show a different face.”
Norway coach Stale Solbakken told VG newspaper he had been fully updated about the injury and was “preparing for a life without Martin.”
“We have to take it week by week and day by day. Some types of damage go faster and some go slower,” he said.
With Ødegaard sidelined, Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures will be a true test of the team’s character and determination.
