Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the injury status of captain Martin Ødegaard ahead of the Premier League match against Manchester City. Speaking in an interview ahead of the Gunners’ opening group game against Atalanta, Arteta revealed that Ødegaard will be sidelined for an extended period.
“We will lose Martin Ødegaard for a while,” Arteta confirmed. “The scans showed he has some damage, especially to one of the ligaments in the ankle. However, Ricardo Calafiori and Bukayo Saka are fine and available.”
Ødegaard’s injury, which occurred during Norway’s UEFA Nations League match against Austria, is a significant concern for Arsenal. Norway’s team doctor, Ola Sand, had previously indicated a small ankle sprain, but the full extent of the damage remains uncertain due to ongoing swelling. Ødegaard’s absence is expected to be a considerable setback for Arsenal, as he has been a crucial player for the team since his transfer from Real Madrid in January 2021.
The news will likely add to Arsenal’s concerns as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, with Ødegaard’s creative influence and leadership expected to be sorely missed.
