Arsenal Confirms Martin Ødegaard Injury as Captain Suffers Knee Ligament Blow

Arsenal confirm Martin Ødegaard injury after West Ham win, ruling captain out of Norway fixtures with medial knee ligament damage.

Arsenal have confirmed that captain Martin Ødegaard has suffered a knee ligament injury, ruling him out of Norway’s international fixtures. The midfielder sustained medial collateral ligament (MCL) damage to his left knee during Arsenal’s 2–0 Premier League win over West Ham United, forcing him off after just 30 minutes.

The injury occurred following a collision with West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville in the first half. Ødegaard appeared in clear discomfort and was replaced soon after—marking his third consecutive early substitution at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal confirmed that the club’s medical staff will oversee his recovery at the Sobha Realty Training Centre throughout the international break.

“Martin will continue to receive treatment and rehabilitation in London,” the club said in an official statement.

Norway Duty Ruled Out

The setback means Ødegaard will miss Norway’s upcoming fixtures against Israel and New Zealand, including a crucial World Cup qualifier. Medical evaluations conducted after the West Ham match confirmed the midfielder’s MCL injury, prompting his withdrawal from the national squad.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Mikel Arteta expressed his concern over the incident:

“I just spoke to him, and he’s not positive about it. He’s got a brace on, and we’ll have to wait and see what the doctors say.”

Arteta reiterated that Arsenal’s priority is ensuring Ødegaard’s full recovery before he returns to action. The club is taking a cautious approach, mindful of the player’s history of shoulder and knee issues this season.

This latest blow adds to what has been a stop-start campaign for the 26-year-old. Ødegaard had already missed several matches earlier in the season due to a shoulder problem. His influence in midfield—five goals and four assists so far—makes his absence a major concern for Arteta’s side.

What’s Next for Arsenal

Arsenal will face Fulham on October 18, followed by a Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid three days later. Ødegaard’s involvement in either game remains doubtful.

In his absence, Eberechi Eze, Ethan Nwaneri, or Mikel Merino could step in to support Declan Rice in midfield as Arteta looks to maintain Arsenal’s momentum in both competitions.

Adding to Arsenal’s concerns, Declan Rice also picked up a back issue against West Ham. Although expected to join up with England’s national team, his condition will be closely monitored throughout the week.

Despite his injury setbacks, Ødegaard remains a central figure in Arsenal’s title ambitions. His leadership, creativity, and control of the midfield have been vital to the club’s strong start to the season. Supporters will hope to see their captain back on the pitch soon as the Gunners prepare for a critical run of fixtures.

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