Arsenal's Worst Fears Confirmed as Martin Odegaard Injury Update Delivers Devastating Blow
Arsenal's captain Martin Ødegaard has been ruled out of Norway's October international matches due to a knee injury, according to Norway's team physician Ola Sand.
The midfielder was forced off during Saturday's win after a knee-on-knee collision with West Ham United's Crysencio Summerville, and Arsenal later revealed their skipper had sustained ligament damage after he was seen wearing a knee brace.
"This injury prevents him from being available for the upcoming training camp," stated Norway's medical officer Ola Sand. "We maintain regular communication with Arsenal's medical staff, who will oversee his rehabilitation process."
Head coach Ståle Solbakken commented: "This is disappointing news for both us and Martin personally. However, receiving this information early allows us sufficient time to prepare the players who will feature in Saturday's match."
Physical setbacks have plagued Ødegaard throughout this campaign. His exit from the West Ham match marked the third straight Premier League appearance where he was forced off due to injury, with shoulder issues cutting short his two previous outings.
Potential Arsenal Matches Martin Ødegaard May Miss
Arsenal's October Schedule
Arsenal's November Schedule
Currently, Arsenal has not disclosed the full extent of Ødegaard's injury, keeping supporters uncertain about his return timeframe.
This vital information will determine how long Ødegaard remains sidelined, with his absence potentially lasting anywhere from one week to multiple months.
His participation in the away fixture against Fulham on Oct. 18 looks highly questionable, along with the Champions League home match versus Atlético Madrid three days afterward. Both Crystal Palace and Brighton & Hove Albion feature on the calendar before October concludes.
Should Ødegaard's layoff extend into November, he might be unavailable for encounters with Burnley, SK Slavia Prague and Sunderland prior to the following international window.