Arsenal are beginning to face growing concern over Martin Ødegaard’s fitness, with the midfielder’s ongoing knee issues starting to impact both his club and international outlook.
The Norwegian has been central to Arsenal’s system under Mikel Arteta, but his influence has noticeably declined due to limited availability in recent months.
Martin Ødegaard fitness concerns growing at Arsenal
Ødegaard has struggled with recurring knee problems throughout the season, restricting his minutes and consistency.
After missing a significant spell earlier in the campaign, he has only featured in around a third of Arsenal’s minutes in 2026.
“It’s time to start being concerned,” as doubts grow around Martin Ødegaard’s ongoing fitness issues.
The situation has seen him spend more time on the bench, raising questions about his physical condition at a crucial stage of the season.
Creative output difficult to replace
When fully fit, Ødegaard remains Arsenal’s primary creative force.
His ability to dictate tempo, create chances and lead the press makes him a unique profile within Arteta’s system.
| Martin Ødegaard – Premier League 2025/26 | Stat |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 21 |
| Starts | 13 |
| Minutes per game | 54 |
| Total minutes | 1078 |
| Goals | 1 |
Earlier in the season, he averaged over two key passes per game and remained heavily involved in Arsenal’s pressing structure.
Norway monitoring situation closely
The midfielder’s fitness is also a concern for the Norway national team.
Manager Ståle Solbakken is expected to limit Ødegaard’s involvement in upcoming fixtures, prioritising long-term fitness over short-term selection.
“If the situation is still like this in May, then there is reason to worry.”
There is a clear focus on avoiding further aggravation, particularly with major international commitments on the horizon.
Arsenal balancing recovery and performance
Arsenal now face a delicate situation as they manage Ødegaard’s recovery during a critical phase of the season.
Mikel Arteta has not ruled him out of upcoming matches, but selection decisions will depend on how the midfielder responds in training.
Key Insights
- Martin Ødegaard is dealing with ongoing knee issues
- His availability has significantly decreased in 2026
- Arsenal’s creativity is impacted without him
- Norway are monitoring his condition closely
- Concerns could grow if issues persist into May
What’s Next?
Arsenal will continue to manage Ødegaard carefully as they approach the final stretch of the season.
The priority remains getting him back to full fitness without risking further setbacks.
Will Martin Ødegaard regain full fitness in time for Arsenal’s decisive run-in?
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