Ødegaard Withdraws from Norway Squad with Knee Injury

Ødegaard Withdraws from Norway Squad with Medial Knee Injury

Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard has been ruled out of Norway’s upcoming fixtures after suffering a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury to his left knee during Saturday’s clash against West Ham.

The 26-year-old midfielder will remain in London for treatment and further evaluation, missing Norway’s World Cup qualifier vs Israel (11 Oct) and friendly against New Zealand (14 Oct).

There is no confirmed timeline for Ødegaard’s return to competitive action.

Concerning Pattern of Injuries

Saturday’s incident marks the latest in a troublesome spell for Ødegaard, who has now been substituted before half-time in three consecutive Premier League starts — a first in Premier League history.

He previously exited early in Arsenal’s wins against Leeds United and Nottingham Forest, both times due to a recurring shoulder problem.

Against West Ham, Ødegaard left the pitch on the 30-minute mark following a knee-on-knee collision with Crysencio Summerville.

“He’s not positive about it. He’s got a brace on. We’ll have to wait and see from the doctors,” said Mikel Arteta.

“He’s our captain, and he gives us a different dimension in attack. We’ve missed him for most of the season already.”

Arsenal Monitoring Situation Closely

Ødegaard’s absence comes as another blow to Arsenal’s midfield depth, especially with a busy post-international break schedule approaching.

Meanwhile, Declan Rice, who also sustained a back knock in the same match, has been cleared to join up with the England squad as expected.

The Gunners will hope Ødegaard’s condition does not lead to a long-term layoff, especially with key fixtures against Everton, Spurs, and Champions League knockout matches on the horizon.

Norway Fixtures (Without Ødegaard)

• vs Israel (WCQ) – 11 October

• vs New Zealand (Friendly) – 14 October