Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard will be sidelined for several weeks after suffering a knee injury, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed ahead of their clash with Fulham.
The injury is a blow to Arsenal’s midfield and leadership structure. Ødegaard sustained a medial collateral ligament (MCL) problem during a 2-0 victory over West Ham, forcing him off midway through the match. He has already withdrawn from Norway’s national team duties as a result.
Arteta was cautious in setting a return date, stating only that the captain’s rehab is progressing. “He will be weeks. No definite date for his return,” the manager said. The possibility remains that Ødegaard might not be fit until after the next international break.
This setback continues a frustrating run for Ødegaard, whose season has already been disrupted by shoulder problems. The latest absence adds to an injury crisis at Arsenal — the club are also without Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Noni Madueke, all dealing with knee issues.
In Ødegaard’s absence, Arsenal must rely on squad depth in midfield. Players like Eberechi Eze, Mikel Merino, Martín Zubimendi, and Ethan Nwaneri are viewed as possible cover. Arteta emphasized the importance of the captain to the team’s dynamics and acknowledged that his absence will be felt.
Arsenal face a tricky stretch of fixtures across the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups, and Ødegaard’s injury complicates their plans. The Gunners will hope his recovery stays on track so that he can return at full strength and support their push on multiple fronts.
