Arsenal Captain Odegaard Ruled Out Until Mid-November with Knee Injury

The Gunners suffer a major setback as key midfielder Martin Odegaard faces weeks on the sidelines, missing crucial Premier League and Champions League fixtures.

Arsenal F.C. have been dealt a significant setback as captain Martin Ødegaard is expected to be sidelined until after the November international break due to a medial collateral ligament injury. The 26-year-old suffered the knock during Arsenal’s 4 October win over West Ham United F.C. and had to be substituted in the first half.

Club Confirms Extended Absence

Arsenal confirmed Odegaard’s injury the day after the match but initially did not provide a specific recovery timeline. New updates indicate he will miss the rest of October and much of November, with a return likely after the next international window. The setback is a major concern for manager Mikel Arteta, who relies heavily on the midfielder’s leadership and creativity.

Matches Odegaard Will Miss

Odegaard’s absence means he will miss crucial Premier League fixtures against Fulham F.C., Crystal Palace F.C., Burnley F.C., and Sunderland A.F.C.. He will also be unavailable for two UEFA Champions League clashes against Atlético Madrid and SK Slavia Prague. These matches could be pivotal in both Arsenal’s title challenge and their European campaign.

Recurring Fitness Issues

This injury adds to what has been a frustrating start to the season for Odegaard. He has been forced off in the first half of three consecutive Premier League games, raising concerns about his long-term fitness. The club’s medical team is expected to take a cautious approach to ensure he fully recovers before returning to action.

Race to Be Fit for North London Derby

Arsenal face their fiercest rivals Tottenham Hotspur F.C. on 23 November, just after the international break. Arteta will be hoping to have his captain available for the high-stakes derby. However, given the nature of MCL injuries, his participation will depend on how well rehabilitation progresses over the coming weeks.

International Implications for Norway

Odegaard’s absence is also a blow for Norway national football team, as the midfielder is an integral part of their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. Norway took a significant step towards qualification on Saturday with a 5-0 victory over Israel national football team. Should they qualify, it would mark their first major tournament appearance since 2000. His fitness could be crucial to Norway’s hopes next summer.

Arteta Faces Tactical Test

With Odegaard unavailable, Arteta may need to reshuffle his midfield and attacking structure. Options include giving more responsibility to players like Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, or handing more minutes to emerging talents. Arsenal’s squad depth will be put to the test as they navigate a demanding fixture list without their captain.

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Looking Ahead

Odegaard’s recovery will be closely monitored over the next few weeks. Arsenal fans will be hopeful he returns in time for the north London derby, a fixture that could shape the title race. For now, the team must adapt and find ways to maintain their momentum without one of their most influential players.

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