Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is set to miss at least three weeks after suffering an ankle injury during Norway’s 2-1 victory against Austria in the UEFA Nations League.
The midfielder sprained his ankle during Monday’s clash and has been using crutches due to significant swelling.
In an interview with VG, Norway’s team doctor, Ole Sand, gave a bleak outlook on Odegaard’s recovery time.
“Such ankle injuries often take at least three weeks. Anything other than that is just a bonus. And then it can take longer,” Sand explained, indicating that Arsenal may have to prepare for an extended absence if complications arise.
Norway’s head coach, Stale Solbakken, also expressed concerns about being without his star player for a crucial stretch of games.
Solbakken suggested that Odegaard could miss Norway’s October international fixtures, including a home match against Slovenia and an away tie against Austria.
“It is difficult for us if we are going to play without Martin, considering that it is Slovenia at home and Austria away,” said Solbakken. “He is probably the one who has been the least injured of those who are completely bombproof in the XI under me.”
For Arsenal, Odegaard’s absence couldn’t come at a worse time. The Gunners are set to face a demanding run of fixtures following the international break.
First up is a highly-anticipated north London derby against rivals Tottenham Hotspur this Sunday.
Following that, Mikel Arteta’s side will travel to Italy to face Atalanta in their UEFA Champions League group stage opener before taking on Manchester City at the Etihad.
The Gunners are already facing significant squad challenges. Mikel Merino remains sidelined with a shoulder injury, while Declan Rice will miss the Tottenham clash due to suspension.
With Odegaard’s injury compounding these absences, Arsenal’s midfield will be severely depleted during this pivotal period.
Arteta will need to find solutions quickly as his side looks to maintain momentum in both the Premier League and Champions League campaigns without key players.
