Stale Solbakken, Norway’s manager, has indicated that Martin Ødegaard might be struggling with an injury following Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.
With the Premier League paused for the international break, Arsenal’s head coach, Mikel Arteta, will be closely observing his players as they join their national teams.
Ødegaard, who missed Euro 2024 due to Norway’s failure to qualify, was expected to play in the Nations League games against Kazakhstan and Austria this September.
Solbakken’s recent remarks have raised concerns about the Arsenal captain’s condition after he sustained a knock in the Gunners’ last league match. When asked if Ødegaard’s injury was from the Brighton game, Solbakken said, “I think it’s another bang,” suggesting a potential injury. He further noted, “I was about to say, I think it is something other than the bang,” hinting at a possibly more serious issue.
It remains uncertain whether Ødegaard will recover in time for Norway’s Nations League match against Kazakhstan on Friday. Arsenal fans are also worried about whether their captain will be fit for the crucial North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
Arteta is also dealing with potential midfield shortages. Declan Rice, a key player, received a red card against Brighton, resulting in a one-match suspension, which includes the important Spurs fixture. Additionally, Arsenal’s midfield depth has been reduced with Fabio Vieira’s recent loan move to Porto.
If Ødegaard is unavailable due to injury, Arteta will have only three senior midfielders to choose from, possibly even fewer depending on Ødegaard’s fitness. While fans are eager to see more of veteran midfielder Jorginho, Thomas Partey, a regular in Arteta’s squad this season, might be relied upon more heavily if Ødegaard is unable to play.
Overall, Ødegaard’s injury concerns and Rice’s suspension present significant challenges for Arteta as he prepares for the upcoming Tottenham match, which could have a major impact on the team’s season.
