Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed hope that the upcoming international break will offer his team a chance to regroup after a series of injury setbacks. The Spanish coach’s frustration is evident, as several key players, including Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, have been sidelined in recent weeks. Both players picked up injuries during Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Chelsea on Sunday, leaving Arteta visibly unhappy with the result and the growing injury list. These setbacks, combined with the result, have added pressure on the team during a crucial period of the season.
The injuries to Saka and Rice are particularly significant for Arteta, who is already grappling with other fitness concerns within the squad. With key players unavailable, Arteta is eager for the international break to serve as an opportunity for reassessment and recovery, hoping it will allow some of the injured players to return and restore stability to the team.
In other news, Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard, who made his first start since early September against Chelsea, is set to join the Norwegian national team for their upcoming matches against Slovenia and Kazakhstan. Ødegaard’s return has been highly anticipated, given his importance to Arsenal’s midfield, but his inclusion in Norway’s squad remains uncertain. Arteta has been cautious about Ødegaard’s fitness, indicating that his condition will need to be carefully monitored before a decision is made regarding his participation in the international fixtures.
Norway manager Ståle Solbakken, however, has expressed his desire to include Ødegaard in his squad despite the midfielder’s recent injury concerns. Speaking to VG, Solbakken said, “We’ll see how it turns out. The ankle, the medics, and Martin decide this.” This suggests Ødegaard’s participation will depend on medical evaluations and his own assessment of his fitness, with the final decision likely being made in consultation with Arsenal’s medical staff.
In summary, Arteta and his team are hoping the international break will provide the opportunity to recover key players and address ongoing injury issues that have disrupted their season. While the situation remains fluid for players like Ødegaard, the focus is on ensuring the team is in the best possible shape when domestic action resumes.
