Martin Odegaard’s Injury: Concerns for Arsenal and Norway

Concerns are growing for Martin Ødegaard, the Arsenal midfielder who left the pitch in tears during last Monday’s Nations League match against Austria. Initial examinations indicate that there is no fracture, but the injury is significant enough to sideline him for several weeks. His availability for the match against PSG on October 1 is now in serious doubt.

This setback is a blow not only for the Norwegian national team but also for Arsenal. Ødegaard sustained an ankle injury during the game against Austria, but the early assessments have brought some relief. “What we have received so far from the MRI scan in London suggests that there is probably no fracture in the ankle,” stated the Norwegian team doctor.

“It can take longer or go faster”

Ødegaard is expected to undergo further tests to establish a more accurate diagnosis. In the meantime, Ola Sand has refrained from speculating on the duration of his absence. “It can take longer or go faster. It also depends on the individual; it could be three weeks, but it’s not measured to the day. It’s not the worst ankle injury in the world, so there is hope. We must wait and see both what the MRI images show and how quickly he responds to treatment,” he told VG.

Champions League absence nearly confirmed

However, it seems that Ødegaard may not be fit in time for the first two matches of the Champions League, which includes a fixture against Atalanta Bergamasca on September 22, followed by the critical game against PSG on October 1. This news is particularly unfortunate for Arsenal, who will need to adjust their midfield strategy in his absence.