Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard is set to be sidelined “for a while” following a serious ankle injury sustained while representing Norway last week, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Wednesday.
The 25-year-old was forced to leave the pitch during his country’s Nations League match against Austria in Oslo on September 9 and returned to London using crutches.
Ødegaard was unable to participate in Sunday’s North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. As Arteta prepared for Arsenal’s opening Champions League match against Atalanta in Bergamo on Thursday, he provided an update on the captain’s condition.
“The scans revealed some damage, particularly to one of the ligaments in his ankle,” said Arteta. “It’s a significant injury, so we’ll be without him for a while.”
Currently, Arteta’s side sits second in the league, just two points behind Manchester City. He expressed hope that Ødegaard’s absence wouldn’t extend for months, stating, “But we’ll have to wait and see.”
Ødegaard has established himself as a crucial player for Arsenal, having missed only a few games over the past three seasons. His extended absence will be a significant setback for the team.
“He’s our captain and has been one of the most influential and outstanding players in our squad,” Arteta added, underscoring the importance of Ødegaard’s leadership and contributions on the pitch.
“Our identity is closely tied to how he plays and conducts himself,” Arteta explained. “This will be a significant test for the team to see how we can adapt and present a different style.”
Norway coach Stale Solbakken shared with VG newspaper that he had been fully briefed on Ødegaard’s injury and is “preparing for a life without Martin.” He emphasized the need for a cautious approach, stating, “We have to take it week by week and day by day. Some types of injuries heal quickly, while others take more time.”
