Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is expected to miss a minimum of three weeks after sustaining an ankle injury, according to Norway’s team doctor, Ola Sand. The 25-year-old midfielder suffered the injury during Norway’s Nations League victory over Austria and returned to London on Tuesday for further evaluation.
Dr. Sand has indicated that while initial MRI scans suggest there is no fracture in Odegaard’s left ankle, the recovery process could still take some time. “Such ankle injuries typically take at least three weeks to heal,” said Sand in an interview with Norwegian outlet VG. “Anything less would be a bonus, but it could extend beyond that.”
The absence of a fracture means Odegaard has avoided a longer-term injury, which could have ruled him out for six weeks or more. However, Sand has emphasized the unpredictability of such injuries, stating that even without a break, recovery may still be slow.
Odegaard’s injury comes at a crucial time for Arsenal, with five matches in the next three weeks. These include key fixtures in the Premier League and the Champions League, such as the away match against Atalanta next Thursday and a clash with title rivals Manchester City on September 22. Odegaard’s absence will be a significant blow for the Gunners, as they will also be without Declan Rice, who is suspended for the upcoming north London derby against Tottenham.
Arsenal’s summer signings have also been hit with injuries, with Mikel Merino sidelined due to a fractured shoulder, and doubts surrounding Riccardo Calafiori, who suffered a calf problem while playing for Italy. On a more positive note, striker Gabriel Jesus may soon return from a groin issue, potentially boosting Arsenal’s attacking options.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is expected to address Odegaard’s injury and the team’s overall fitness concerns during his press conference on Friday, ahead of Sunday’s north London derby. While Odegaard’s condition is still being closely monitored, Arsenal fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for their captain as the team navigates this challenging period without key players.
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