Image credit: Getty Images
Martin Odegaard has endured a frustrating season disrupted by recurring injury problems, with the Arsenal captain struggling to maintain consistent fitness during the campaign.
The Norwegian playmaker, who is central to manager Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup, has been forced to miss several matches due to a series of physical setbacks that have limited his rhythm and availability.
Earlier in the season, Odegaard dealt with shoulder issues before suffering a knee injury that required careful management from Arsenal’s medical staff. The midfielder picked up the latest problem during a Premier League match against Brentford, after appearing to hurt his knee while attempting to block a shot during the game.
The injury forced him out of several recent fixtures, raising concerns among supporters about how long the influential captain might remain sidelined.
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Despite those concerns, Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has now provided a positive update regarding Odegaard’s recovery, suggesting the midfielder could return to action before the end of March.
Speaking to Scandinavian broadcaster Viaplay, Solbakken downplayed fears over the severity of the injury and indicated that the Arsenal captain’s absence is largely precautionary.
Martin Odegaard is recovering from a knee injury (Image credit: Getty Images)“There is nothing serious about Martin,” Solbakken said. “The most important thing is that he recovers completely and is good for us in the summer. For those of us who care about the World Cup, it’s not a disaster that he’s getting some breaks now.”
The Norway boss also suggested that Odegaard could make his comeback sooner rather than later if his recovery continues to progress as expected.
“He’s going to rebuild and be crucial for Arsenal in April–May and maybe late March,” Solbakken added.
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That timeline would represent a major boost for Arsenal as they approach a crucial stretch of the season across domestic and European competitions. Arteta’s side have relied heavily on Odegaard’s creativity, leadership and pressing ability in midfield since he was appointed club captain in 2022, and his absence has been felt in recent matches.
While the Norwegian international may still miss a handful of fixtures in the short term, the update from Solbakken suggests the injury is not expected to keep him out for an extended period. Arsenal’s medical staff are believed to be prioritising a full recovery to ensure the midfielder can return at full fitness during the decisive final months of the campaign.
If Odegaard does return toward the end of March, he could play an important role in Arsenal’s push for silverware and help lead the team through the crucial run-in during April and May.
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