Martin Odegaard
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium has been overshadowed by a fresh injury concern for captain Martin Odegaard, who was forced off after just 38 minutes with a suspected shoulder problem.
The Norwegian midfielder, making his 200th appearance for the club, appeared to sustain the injury following a challenge with Leeds’ Anton Stach midway through the first half. Although he initially attempted to continue after receiving treatment, Odegaard eventually went down again and was unable to carry on.
Manager Mikel Arteta replaced him with 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, while Odegaard left the pitch visibly in pain and struggling to move his arm. Arsenal were already leading through a Jurriën Timber header, and Bukayo Saka later doubled the advantage before stoppage time, but the captain’s condition dominated post-match discussions.
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The incident has sparked fears that Odegaard could miss a crucial run of fixtures, including the highly anticipated clash with Liverpool at Anfield on August 31. His absence would be a major blow for Arsenal, who endured a turbulent start to last season when their skipper was sidelined with an ankle sprain picked up on international duty.
Martin Odegaard injury
Martin Odegaard suffered a shoulder injury against Leeds United (Image credit: Getty Images)
That injury kept him out for two months, forcing him to miss 12 matches, including a North London Derby and Champions League ties.
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Odegaard, 26, also suffered a hip problem during the 2023/24 campaign and has increasingly become a victim of Arsenal’s injury troubles. Last season saw multiple setbacks across the squad, with Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Magalhães all missing significant time.
This latest scare comes just as Arsenal unveiled marquee signing Eberechi Eze before kick-off against Leeds. The England international could be among the players called upon to fill the creative gap if Odegaard faces another extended spell on the sidelines.
Arsenal are now awaiting medical assessments to determine the severity of the injury, with Arteta expected to provide an update in the coming days.
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