Odegaard to be sidelined for a month with injury blow
Arsenal have been dealt a major setback as captain Martin Odegaard faces an extended spell on the sidelines with a knee ligament injury.
According to reports, the Norwegian playmaker will be out until after the November international break, missing a crucial run of fixtures that could shape the Gunners’ season across three competitions.
Odegaard suffered the injury during Arsenal’s 2-0 home win over West Ham, with the midfielder forced off in the first half following a collision with Crysencio Summerville.
It marked an unwanted Premier League record, as Odegaard became the first player to be substituted in the opening half of three consecutive starts.
This is not the first fitness concern to disrupt Odegaard’s campaign. Earlier in the season, he was managing a shoulder injury sustained in August’s 5-0 win over Leeds, which restricted his minutes in the defeat to Liverpool.
Despite making a strong comeback against Olympiacos in Europe, his latest setback has renewed fears about his workload and long-term fitness.
Arteta’s midfield options are being stretched thin. Declan Rice briefly worried supporters when he limped off with back pain against West Ham but has since returned to full fitness, captaining England in their 3-0 friendly win over Wales.
However, Arsenal are still contending with injuries to Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, all recovering from knee issues.
There is some optimism that Piero Hincapie could return following the international break after missing time with a groin problem.
With Odegaard absent, Arteta will look to the likes of Eberechi Eze and Martin Zubimendi to provide creativity in midfield.
Both have impressed in cameo appearances, but replicating the Norwegian’s authority, control and rhythm will be a significant challenge.