FOOTBALL
Posted on March 19, 2026 8:30 pm | Updated on March 19, 2026 7:57 pm
Arsenal have been handed a cautious but timely boost ahead of their biggest domestic fixture of the season, with fresh comments offering a glimmer of hope around Martin Odegaard fitness. The captain has missed recent matches at a crucial stage, and his availability for the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City remains one of the key talking points in the build up.
Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has not completely ruled out the possibility of Martin Odegaard featuring at Wembley, though his words suggest a careful and measured approach. Speaking ahead of the international break, Solbakken hinted that any involvement would depend heavily on how the midfielder responds to late fitness tests and training sessions.
He explained that if Odegaard is able to rejoin full training and make the matchday squad, further discussions would take place regarding his condition. However, there was a clear undertone of caution in his remarks. Solbakken stressed that building physical sharpness remains the priority, rather than rushing the player back into a high intensity fixture too soon.
As per the reports, Arsenal are continuing to monitor his progress closely in the final days leading up to the game, knowing that even partial involvement could make a difference. The situation remains fluid, but there is now at least a possibility that did not seem realistic earlier in the week within football discussions.
Injury struggles and Arsenal’s careful stance
Odegaard’s absence has not come out of nowhere. The Norwegian has been managing a knee issue that first surfaced during the draw against Brentford in February, and it has lingered longer than initially expected. Although he made a brief return after missing a few fixtures, the problem has since required further rest.
This season has not been kind to him physically. Alongside the current concern, he has already dealt with separate shoulder and knee setbacks, disrupting his rhythm at a time when consistency is vital. Arsenal have therefore taken a cautious stance, unwilling to risk aggravating the issue ahead of a demanding run of matches in the Premier League.
But his impact on the team is more than just statistics. Martin Odegaard controls tempo, brings together attacking movements and guides when it gets tense. Arsenal have had to alter their attacking schemes without him, often missing the degree of control in parts of the game that he provides. His potential comeback even, or especially, if limited could do as much for the team’s psyche as its tactics.
Final call on Martin Odegaard before Wembley showdown
The coming days will be decisive. Training sessions late in the week are expected to determine whether Odegaard can realistically be included in the squad to face Manchester City. The medical staff will assess not just his ability to play, but whether he can perform without risking a longer setback.
From Norway’s perspective, there is a clear preference to keep him out of the upcoming friendlies and allow him to rebuild fitness properly. Solbakken’s stance reflects a long term view, especially with international commitments on the horizon. That adds another layer of complexity to Arsenal’s decision making.
For now, the situation remains finely balanced. Arsenal will not take unnecessary risks, but they also understand the magnitude of the occasion. A Carabao Cup final does not come around often, and having their captain available, even in a reduced role, could prove significant.
Whether he starts, features from the bench, or misses out entirely, Odegaard’s fitness will be one of the defining subplots of the weekend. In a game where margins are expected to be tight, even a small boost in quality could shape the outcome.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add Six Sports as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Deepanjali Bhardwaj
Deepanjali Bhardwaj is a Sports Writer at Six Sports, covering both football and cricket with a focus on match developments, player performances, and key talking points across the two sports. Her work combines timely reporting with clear analysis, helping readers stay informed about major matches, tournaments, and emerging storylines in the football and cricket landscape. Through her coverage at Six Sports, Deepanjali contributes match reports, analytical pieces, and feature stories that highlight important moments, team strategies, and standout player performances across domestic and international competitions.
Mentioned in this Article
Recommended for you