Martin Odegaard, Arsenal’s influential playmaker, has been spotted using crutches as he boarded a private jet at Oslo airport. The injury, sustained during international duty with Norway, comes just days before Arsenal’s critical North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
Key Takeaways
- Martin Odegaard suffered a bad ankle injury during Norway’s match against Austria.
- He was seen limping and using crutches at Oslo airport.
- The injury could sideline him for crucial upcoming matches, including the North London derby.
Injury Details
Martin Odegaard’s injury occurred following a slide tackle from Christoph Baumgartner during Norway’s 2-1 victory over Austria. The 25-year-old midfielder was visibly in pain and had to be helped off the pitch by the medical team. Norwegian outlet VG captured images of Odegaard at Oslo airport, where he was seen using crutches and avoiding putting weight on his left foot.
Impact on Arsenal
The timing of Odegaard’s injury is particularly concerning for Arsenal. The Gunners are set to face Tottenham in the first North London derby of the season in just a few days. With Declan Rice suspended and Mikel Merino also injured, Arsenal’s midfield options are severely limited. This could force Mikel Arteta to rely on Thomas Partey and Jorginho for the crucial match.
Medical Assessments
Norway’s head coach, Stale Solbakken, and national team doctor, Ola Sand, have both commented on the severity of Odegaard’s injury. While initial assessments suggest a small ankle sprain, further tests, including an ultrasound and possibly an MRI, will be conducted to determine the full extent of the damage. Solbakken has already indicated that Odegaard is likely to miss the next international break in October.
Personal Struggles
Odegaard’s girlfriend, Helene Spilling, was present in the stands during the match and appeared visibly distressed as he was helped off the field. The couple recently announced they are expecting a child, adding a personal dimension to Odegaard’s current struggles.
Arsenal’s Injury Crisis
Arsenal is currently dealing with an injury crisis. In addition to Odegaard, Declan Rice is suspended, and Mikel Merino is out with a fractured shoulder. The Gunners are also missing Riccardo Calafiori, who suffered an ankle injury during Italy’s Nations League win over France. This leaves Arteta with limited options as he prepares for the crucial derby against Spurs.
Upcoming Matches
Depending on the severity of Odegaard’s injury, he could miss several important fixtures for Arsenal. These include a trip to champions Manchester City and Champions League games against Atalanta and PSG. The Gunners will be hoping for a swift recovery for their captain as they navigate this challenging period.