Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard faces an injury scare after being hurt in a challenge by Bernardo Silva during Norway's 2-1 defeat to Portugal on Sunday. The 27-year-old midfielder was left furious by the late tackle, which he branded an 'ugly' act that has no place in the game.
Odegaard required treatment after the final whistle in Oslo and was seen hobbling out of the stadium. He spoke to Norwegian broadcaster TV2 about the incident, which occurred after he had released the ball. "It doesn't belong on a football field," Odegaard said. "It's a shame that people do that. It's a head fog from him."
He further elaborated on the nature of the challenge, stating it was a clear foul that came well after the ball had gone. The Arsenal playmaker expressed his frustration at what he perceived as a dangerous and pointless action from the Manchester City midfielder.
The immediate concern is for Arsenal's upcoming schedule. The Gunners are second in the Premier League with 12 points from five games and face Leeds United at home on 10 October. Odegaard admitted the knock on his ankle "probably won't be good tonight" but expressed hope it would not rule him out of action. Manager Mikel Arteta will be assessing his skipper's fitness closely ahead of that key league fixture. The club's medical staff are expected to evaluate the swelling and bruising around the joint in the coming days.
The international friendly saw Portugal take the lead through Joao Felix before Manchester City's Erling Haaland equalised for Norway in the 51st minute. Goncalo Ramos restored Portugal's advantage just three minutes later. Cristiano Ronaldo remained an unused substitute for the visitors. The match was overshadowed for Arsenal by Odegaard's injury, with Norwegian commentator Simen Stamso Moller also condemning Silva's challenge as "completely unnecessary". Reports from the Norway camp indicated Odegaard was in significant discomfort post-match, though no formal diagnosis was immediately available.
Arsenal's form has been strong with four wins from their last five league outings, a run detailed in the standings. The potential absence of their captain, however, presents a significant challenge. The squad's depth will be tested, with players like Kai Havertz, who recently withdrew from Germany duty, among those who could step into the creative midfield role. Emile Smith Rowe and Fabio Vieira are other options in the number ten position. The club's full squad list shows the options available to Arteta as he prepares his team for the visit of Leeds. Arsenal are also set to face PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League shortly after the Leeds fixture, adding to the importance of Odegaard's recovery timeline.
More detail at Daily Mirror Football
