Martin Ødegaard faces an anxious wait after being forced off during Arsenal’s emphatic 5-0 win over Leeds United. The midfielder lasted just 38 minutes before succumbing to a shoulder problem that could now keep him out of Norway’s upcoming international fixtures against Finland and Moldova.
The Arsenal captain had started brightly but appeared in discomfort after a clash midway through the first half. Despite attempting to play on, Ødegaard’s movement became increasingly restricted, and he was eventually replaced by Ethan Nwaneri shortly before half-time.
Injury concerns for club and country
Arsenal will be frustrated to lose another key figure after Bukayo Saka was also withdrawn during the same game. The timing could hardly be worse, with Mikel Arteta’s side preparing for a crucial clash against Liverpool. Ødegaard’s creativity and leadership are central to Arsenal’s system, and his absence would be a significant setback.
The concerns extend beyond north London. Norway, who are currently thriving in World Cup qualifying, host Finland on 4 September before travelling to Moldova five days later. Reports from NRK suggest Ødegaard is now a major doubt for both matches if medical tests confirm a more serious injury.
A key figure for Norway
The 26-year-old has been in excellent form on the international stage, registering five assists in four qualifiers so far. His influence extends beyond statistics, with his vision and composure setting the tempo for a Norway side eager to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
Losing him for the upcoming fixtures would be a heavy blow for manager Ståle Solbakken, particularly given Norway’s reliance on Ødegaard to link play with star striker Erling Haaland. While the team has developed greater depth in recent years, few players can replicate the Arsenal captain’s creative spark.
Arsenal will assess the midfielder in the coming days, with both club and country awaiting clarity. For now, his involvement in two critical fixtures, Liverpool for Arsenal and a qualifying double-header for Norway, hangs in the balance.
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