Arsenal have been dealt a significant injury setback with Martin Ødegaard ruled out for “weeks”, as confirmed by manager Mikel Arteta ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Fulham.
The Gunners’ captain has endured a frustrating start to the season, having already missed four games with a shoulder problem. His latest issue — an MCL injury — will now keep him sidelined for an extended spell, adding to Arteta’s growing injury list at a key stage of the campaign.
Arteta admitted the Norwegian’s recovery timeline remains uncertain but expressed optimism that he could return next month if rehabilitation progresses smoothly. The Spaniard described his skipper’s situation as “very unlucky”, stressing that the club will avoid rushing him back into action.
Ødegaard ruled out for weeks, says Arteta
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Arteta confirmed that Ødegaard is “evolving well” but won’t be available for several upcoming fixtures.
“It will be weeks. No definite date for his return, but he is evolving well. Very unlucky what is happening with him and his injuries this season, but I think he will be back in a few weeks.” — Mikel Arteta
Arteta added that the club would reassess the midfielder’s progress after the next international break. Ødegaard’s absence comes at a time when Arsenal are juggling domestic and European commitments, with crucial fixtures against Fulham, Newcastle United, and a Champions League tie against Lazio on the horizon.
Injury landscape improving elsewhere for Arsenal
While Ødegaard’s absence is a major blow, there was some positive news for the Gunners. Martin Zubimendi and Ben White are both expected to feature against Fulham despite missing training on Thursday, with Arteta clarifying that their workloads were being managed carefully after heavy recent schedules.
New signing Piero Hincapié has also returned to full training after early-season setbacks, while winger Noni Madueke is “getting closer” to a return following a knee injury sustained in the 1-1 draw with Manchester City.
“He [Madueke] is going to do some running soon,” Arteta confirmed. “We’re happy with his progress.” — Mikel Arteta
However, long-term absentee Kai Havertz remains unavailable. The German midfielder has been sidelined since the opening week of the campaign with a knee issue, and Arteta suggested his recovery is still “very difficult,” warning that the player must not “break every timeline” in his eagerness to return.
| Stat (2025/26) | Martin Ødegaard |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 5 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Key Passes per 90 | 2.9 |
source: sofascore match data – 17 October 2025
These early-season numbers highlight just how crucial Ødegaard’s creativity and leadership are to Arsenal’s attacking rhythm. Without him, Arteta may rely more on Declan Rice or Emile Smith Rowe to provide forward thrust and link-up play in central areas.
Analyst Verdict — by John William, FootballPlace
In my view, this is a pivotal test of Arsenal’s depth. Ødegaard is the team’s metronome, dictating tempo and transition — his absence forces Arteta to tweak the midfield dynamic. We believe Smith Rowe or Fabio Vieira could fill the creative void, but neither offers the same level of control or vision.
That said, Arsenal’s defensive structure has been resilient, and the return of Hincapié and Madueke adds much-needed options. If Arteta manages minutes smartly, the Gunners can survive this stretch without losing momentum.
Key Insights
- Arteta confirms Ødegaard out for “weeks” with an MCL injury.
- Return possible after November international break.
- Zubimendi, White, and Hincapié all available vs Fulham.
- Madueke nearing return; Havertz recovery still ongoing.
- Arsenal balancing multiple injuries as fixture congestion builds.
What’s Next
Arsenal visit Fulham on 18 October before hosting Atletico Madrid in the Champions League group stage midweek. Arteta’s side will then face Crystal Palace for in the Premier League and Brighton in the Carabao Cup, with hopes that Ødegaard could return before the end of November.
Until then, leadership responsibilities will likely fall to Rice and Gabriel Jesus, as Arsenal aim to stay within touching distance of the Premier League summit.
👉 Can Arsenal maintain their title push without Ødegaard pulling the strings?
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