Arsenal midfielder and captain Martin Odegaard has been diagnosed with a collateral ligament injury to his left knee, following his early substitution during Saturday’s Premier League victory over West Ham United
The 26-year-old Norwegian international was forced off the pitch after just 30 minutes at the London Stadium, adding to a growing list of fitness concerns for the Gunners this season.
The injury occurred during a challenge in the first half of Arsenal’s 3-1 win, which potentially kept them level on points with league leaders Manchester City.
Odegaard, who has been instrumental to Arsenal’s attacking play, was seen limping heavily as he left the field, and post-match images showed his knee in a brace.
Commenting immediately after the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta described the situation as “not positive,” expressing concern over the recurring setbacks for his star player.
Providing update on its website on Sunday, Arsenal confirmed the young star will be missed in Norway’s squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Slovenia and Austria during the October international break.
“Martin Odegaard has been withdrawn from the Norway national team for their upcoming matches against Israel and New Zealand after sustaining a medial collateral ligament injury to his left knee during the first half of Saturday’s win over West Ham United.
“Martin will continue to be assessed and treated by our medical team at Sobha Realty Training Centre during the international window, with the aim of a return to action as soon as possible. Martin will continue to be assessed and treated by our medical team at Sobha Realty Training Centre during the international window.”
The latest injury marks an unwanted milestone for Odegaard, who has now been substituted before halftime in three consecutive Premier League starts, first in the competition’s history.