Arsenal fans are bracing for a challenging week, as news emerges that club captain Martin Ødegaard is set to miss the highly anticipated North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Ødegaard, who sustained an ankle injury while playing for Norway in their 2-1 victory over Austria, was seen limping off the pitch and later boarding a flight on crutches, sparking concerns about his availability for upcoming fixtures.
The injury occurred after a reckless tackle by Austria’s Christoph Baumgartner, which left the Arsenal playmaker in visible pain. Initial reports suggested a possible fracture, but subsequent medical assessments in London have ruled out a break. According to Norway’s team doctor Ola Sand, while the injury does not involve a fracture, Ødegaard is still expected to be sidelined for several weeks due to the severity of the sprain. This will keep him out of action for Arsenal’s critical matches against Tottenham, Atalanta in the Champions League, and Manchester City.
For Arsenal, this comes as a significant blow. Ødegaard has been instrumental in the team’s early-season success, and his absence will leave a gap in creativity and leadership in midfield. Manager Mikel Arteta must now scramble to adjust his tactics, especially with other key players like Mikel Merino and Declan Rice also unavailable—Merino nursing a shoulder injury and Rice suspended for the Tottenham clash.
The upcoming matches are crucial for Arsenal’s campaign. After a mixed start to the Premier League season, the Gunners are looking to regain momentum, and the North London derby is traditionally a high-stakes, high-pressure contest. Ødegaard’s absence adds extra pressure, particularly with Tottenham currently in strong form under their new manager.
Ødegaard’s injury also raises broader concerns about Arsenal’s squad depth. With multiple midfielders sidelined, Arteta may have to look toward younger or fringe players like Fabio Vieira or Emile Smith Rowe to step up. Whether they can fill the void remains to be seen, but these are the moments where squad depth is tested in a long, grueling season
As Arsenal prepares for this crucial stretch of games, all eyes will be on how Arteta reshapes his squad. The Gunners will be hoping for a swift recovery for Ødegaard, as his presence could be pivotal in the title race later in the season. However, for now, Arsenal must find a way to cope without their captain, and the next few weeks will be a true test of their ambitions.
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