Revealed: Martin Odegaard's ankle injury worse than first thought as Arsenal pencil in return date for Gunners captain

The 25-year-old midfielder sustained ligament damage during a Nations League match against Austria during the September international break. When Odegaard returned to North London for further assessment after picking up the injury, Arsenal’s medical team initially hoped for a quicker recovery. However, HITC has reported that scans revealed more extensive ligament damage and the Norwegian playmaker will now need an extended period of rehabilitation.

While an exact return date is still unclear, the club is not expecting him to be fully fit until around Christmas. It is understood that the club have emphasized that the primary focus will be ensuring Odegaard is 100 per cent recovered for the crucial second half of the season and they will therefore not rush him back.

Odegaard’s injury is undoubtedly a massive blow for Arsenal. The midfielder has been one of the most influential players under Mikel Arteta, contributing 11 goals and 11 assists in the Premier League last season. His ability to unlock defences with precision passing, creativity, and vision is unmatched in the current squad, making him a vital component of Arsenal’s attacking play.

Odegaard’s absence could not have come at a more challenging time for Arsenal, as they face a crucial week of fixtures. The Gunners kick off their Champions League campaign on Thursday against reigning Europa League champions Atalanta, followed by a high-stakes Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday.