Martin Ødegaard Injury Clouds Arsenal's Derby Plans

Martin Ødegaard, Arsenal captain suffered an ankle injury during Norway’s Nations League match against Austria where Manchester City forward Erling Haaland scored a late winner. Ødegaard went down in pain after Christoph Baumgartner fouled him midway through the second half. Ødegaard’s injury could raise doubts about his availability for Arsenal’s upcoming north London derby against Tottenham.

The Gunners will also miss Declan Rice due to suspension. Norway’s coach, Ståle Solbakken described Ødegaard’s injury as an ankle sprain and expressed uncertainty about its severity. Solbakken said, “It looked painful in the locker room,” and hoped Ødegaard hadn’t suffered a serious ligament tear. Norway’s team doctor, Ola Sand confirmed the sprain and said they might use an ultrasound or possibly an MRI to assess the injury further.

The match was tied 1-1 when Ødegaard got injured. Felix Myhre had initially put Norway ahead but Marcel Sabitzer equalized for Austria before halftime. As the game seemed destined for a draw, Haaland showed his strength and composure by controlling a ball into the box and scoring the decisive goal. After the derby against Tottenham on Sunday, Arsenal will face Atalanta in the Champions League on September 19.

They will then play Premier League leaders Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on September 22. The potential absence of Martin Ødegaard alongside Rice could significantly impact Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures.