Arsenal Face Nightmare Timeline for Martin Odegaard's Knee Injury Recovery

Ex-Norway national team physician Lars Engebretsen suggests Arsenal's Martin Ødegaard could face an extended spell of over two months away from action if his concerns regarding the midfielder's recent knee problem prove accurate.

During what has been an injury-plagued beginning to the campaign, Arsenal's skipper had to pull out of international duty with Norway following confirmation of ligament damage in his knee. Additional specifics weren't disclosed and no official recovery timeframe has been established.

This uncertainty has generated significant worry amongst Arsenal supporters, who have already endured multiple matches without their leader this term due to a shoulder ailment.

Engebretsen, previously serving as Norway's national team physician and specializing in knee injuries, told Dagbladet that despite lacking complete information about Ødegaard's recent medical imaging, a layoff lasting up to two months wouldn't be shocking.

"Six to eight weeks" represented Engebretsen's projected timeframe, though he wouldn't dismiss the chance of a more severe anterior cruciate ligament tear that could potentially sideline Ødegaard for the remainder of the season.

Present team physician Ola Sand was approached for his input and acknowledged that Arsenal holds exclusive access to comprehensive information.

"Cannot comment," Sand replied. "All details remain with Arsenal at this time."

A two-month recovery period would essentially keep Ødegaard sidelined through December. Though Arsenal faces a manageable October schedule, November concludes with a demanding week featuring matches against Tottenham Hotspur, Bayern Munich and Chelsea, all following the upcoming international window.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is also missing winger Noni Madueke, scheduled to return from injury in late November, coinciding with versatile forward Kai Havertz's anticipated comeback to full fitness.

Gabriel Jesus's rehabilitation from the identical cruciate ligament injury that Ødegaard seeks to avoid is projected to extend into 2026.