Martin Odegaard’s teammate Leo Skiri Ostigard has voiced concern on the Arsenal midfielder’s fitness after he suffered an injury while on international duty for Norway vs Austria.
The 25-year-old was helped off the field after a tussle with Austrian defender Christoph Baumgartner that caused his ankle to twist. He was replaced by Kristian Thorstvedt in the 67th minute.
Further scans will show the extent of his injury, but at this moment there are no promising signs. Arsenal are in close contact with the Norwegian medical team as they plan a safe return for their captain.
🛩️🇳🇴 Ødegaard, on crutches returning to England to be assessed by Arsenal staff.
Pic via @vgsporten 📸 pic.twitter.com/EAlbq2pRRg
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 10, 2024
The Gunners are sweating on Riccardo Calafiori’s fitness after he suffered a minor knock against France. And now, Mikel Arteta will need to tackle another major obstacle ahead of the North London Derby on the 15th of September.
Rennes defender Ostigard played the entire 90 minutes in a 2-1 victory. He revealed that the injury didn’t look good and he would love to take revenge on the Austrian player. As quoted by NRK, he said:
“It wasn’t quite good, it seemed. We really have to hope that it passes quickly and that he is back for both Arsenal and us. I think there were a lot of strange things there. I would have liked to have a duel against the guy who took “Odda” and told him what it’s like to get one back.”
Huge selection headache for Mikel Arteta ahead of Spurs clash
Odegaard is a key player for the North London outfit and is responsible for linking the defence and attack. Although he didn’t produce any goals or assists this season, the No. 8’s experience and creativity are absolutely crucial.
The Gooners are already without Declan Rice for the clash vs. Tottenh*m Hotsp*r and they can’t miss another midfielder.
Mikel Merino is sidelined as well, and they might call in Ethan Nwaneri or shift Kai Havertz in midfield if Odegaard fails to make it to the starting XI this weekend. Raheem Sterling might start as a false nine.
The Norwegian star was seen in crutches, boarding the flight back to England. With little time in hand, it remains to be seen whether he is fit enough to play again in the next few weeks.
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Mikel Arteta’s side will face Spurs and Manchester City in their next two league games. They can’t afford to drop points so early in the competition. Getting off to a healthy start is key to a successful season.
