Arsenal skipper Martin Ødegaard has found himself back on the sidelines, continuing his frustrating injury spell this season.
The Norwegian captain sustained a knee injury during the club’s 2-0 win over West Ham United in early October, which the club later confirmed was a medial collateral ligament (MCL) issue.
This latest setback comes on the back of earlier shoulder problems and has seen Ødegaard play only a limited number of minutes so far this campaign.
The Injury and Recovery Timeline
According to his national team boss, Ståle Solbakken, Martin Ødegaard’s recovery is progressing but remains a way off from full fitness. “It is steady … but he is some distance away,” Solbakken revealed when discussing the midfielder’s status.
The expectation that he could return after the November international break now appears optimistic. Initial speculation had suggested a return for the North London derby, but the Norway boss’s comments suggest a more cautious approach.
Arsenal’s medical staff will no doubt be working around a gradual return plan for Ødegaard, allowing him to recover fully rather than rush him back into action. Given the nature of ligament injuries and his recent history of fitness issues, this careful strategy is understandable.
His Role at the Club and the Impact of the Absence
At Arsenal F.C., Ødegaard is far more than just a creative midfielder — as captain, he is central to how the team both leads and plays.
His vision, passing range, and ability to control tempo have been key to the Gunners’ style under Mikel Arteta. With him unavailable, Arsenal loses both leadership and a vital creative outlet.
The enforced absence hits the team in multiple ways: tactical coherence, offensive fluidity, and morale.
While Arsenal has depth, replacing a player of Ødegaard’s influence is not straightforward. The club will need to lean on other midfielders and perhaps adjust their approach to compensate until he is back.
Conclusion
Ødegaard’s road back to full fitness may be taking longer than Arsenal fans hoped, but the club’s cautious approach is rooted in long-term thinking. As captain and creative heartbeat of the team, his return is too important to risk a setback.
While his absence has undoubtedly affected the Gunners’ rhythm and leadership on the pitch, giving him the time he needs now increases the chances of a stronger, more consistent second half of the season.
For Arsenal supporters, the wait continues — but a fully fit Ødegaard could be worth every moment of patience.