Martin Ødegaard Faces Extended Absence Due to Ankle Injury

Martin Ødegaard has sustained a “quite significant” ankle ligament injury, according to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. The captain suffered the injury during Norway’s Nations League victory over Austria on September 9. Ødegaard went down in pain after a foul by Christoph Baumgartner in the second half, affecting his left ankle. After returning to Arsenal, Ødegaard underwent an MRI scan which revealed damage to the ankle ligaments.

Consequently, he missed Arsenal’s 1-0 win in the north London derby against Tottenham on Sunday. Arteta confirmed that Ødegaard’s injury is substantial, stating that the midfielder will be sidelined for a considerable period, though he hopes it won’t be for months. Ødegaard’s absence will impact Arsenal significantly as the 25-year-old will miss the Champions League match against Atalanta on Thursday.

Additionally, he will be sidelined for the Premier League clash with league leaders Manchester City on Sunday. Arteta emphasized Ødegaard’s importance to the team, noting that his leadership and performance are central to Arsenal’s identity. Arteta expressed concern over how the team will adapt without Ødegaard, who has been a key figure in their recent success.

The injury presents a major challenge for Arsenal as they prepare to face strong opposition in their upcoming fixtures. With Martin Ødegaard out, Arteta and his squad must find ways to maintain their form and adapt to the absence of their influential captain.