Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard has left fans and teammates concerned after picking up an injury during international duty with Norway. The playmaker was forced off in the 67th minute of a UEFA Nations League match against Austria after a heavy tackle left him unable to walk without assistance.
His absence could be a significant blow for the Gunners ahead of the all-important North London Derby against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, September 15.
Ødegaard’s role at Arsenal is pivotal, having been a key figure in the team’s recent title challenges. As one of the Premier League’s most gifted playmakers, his vision and leadership will be sorely missed should he be unable to recover in time.
Adding to manager Mikel Arteta’s woes, Riccardo Calafiori is also an injury doubt, while Declan Rice will be absent due to suspension. The defensive ranks are further depleted by the ongoing injuries to Takehiro Tomiyasu and new signing Mikel Merino.
While there was a glimmer of hope following reports that Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus is expected to return to fitness, uncertainty looms over the squad selection.
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Arteta may be compelled to field a largely inexperienced bench, relying on youth academy players such as Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ayden Heaven, and Josh Nichols to step up in this crucial encounter.
With the stakes higher than ever, Arsenal fans will be hoping for the best regarding Ødegaard’s fitness, as they brace themselves for what promises to be a thrilling derby against their North London rivals.
