Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that captain Martin Odegaard could be out of action until after the November international break due to his latest injury setback.
Odegaard, 26, was forced off during Arsenal’s 3–1 win over West Ham on October 3 after picking up a knee injury. The Norwegian playmaker had already been battling a recurring shoulder problem earlier in the season.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Fulham on Saturday, Arteta described Odegaard’s situation as “very unlucky,” adding that the club will not rush his recovery.
“It will be weeks. There’s no exact date yet, but he’s improving,” Arteta said. “It could be after the next international break, but we’ll see how the knee responds and how he progresses through rehab.”
Despite dealing with injuries to key players such as Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, William Saliba, and Noni Madueke, Arsenal have maintained impressive form this season. The Gunners currently top the Premier League table, one point ahead of Liverpool, as they continue their push for the title after finishing third in each of the last three seasons.
Arteta also spoke about new signing Viktor Gyökeres, who joined to strengthen Arsenal’s attack. The Swedish striker has scored just three goals in ten appearances and is currently on an eight-game goal drought for club and country.
However, the Arsenal boss expressed confidence in the 27-year-old’s overall contribution to the team.
“He gives us a lot in terms of work rate and movement. I’m happy with what he’s doing,” Arteta said. “I told him before, if you wear the number nine shirt for Arsenal, you must handle the pressure even when you don’t score for a few games. He’s doing everything right; once the goals come, he’ll be unstoppable.”
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