Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard was withdrawn in the first half of the Gunners’ recent clash with West Ham after sustaining a knee injury that has now ruled him out of Norway’s upcoming international fixtures.
The midfielder’s season has been interrupted by repeated injury troubles, and this latest problem adds to his frustration.
Ødegaard has already made unwanted headlines this campaign after being forced off before halftime in three consecutive Premier League matches — a worrying trend for both player and club.
Major Blow for Arsenal and Norway
According to BBC reports, Ødegaard’s absence represents a significant setback for Arsenal, who rely heavily on his creativity and leadership in midfield.
His ability to dictate tempo and link play has been central to Mikel Arteta’s system, and his unavailability leaves a noticeable gap.
For Norway, the timing couldn’t be worse. The national team had hoped to count on their captain during the November international break, a decisive phase in their push for World Cup qualification.
Those hopes have now faded, as Ødegaard’s injury means he will play no part in this crucial run of games.
Recovery Outlook and Return Plans
Initial assessments suggest Ødegaard will remain sidelined until after the November international break, giving Arsenal a clearer picture of his recovery timeline.
While the news is disappointing, it allows the medical team to manage his rehabilitation carefully and prevent further setbacks.
Arsenal’s focus will now be on ensuring their captain returns fully fit rather than rushing him back. With plenty of the season still to play, the club hopes to reintegrate him gradually and preserve his fitness for the key stages of their campaign.
Although the setback is far from ideal, both Arsenal and Norway will be banking on Ødegaard’s resilience. A measured approach to his recovery should see him return ready to lead, create, and inspire once again — the qualities that have made him indispensable for club and country.