Martin Ødegaard has played down concerns over his fitness after Arsenal secured a place in the Champions League final, insisting he is taking his recovery “day by day” during a demanding end to the season.
The Arsenal captain came off the bench in the second leg against Atlético Madrid, helping his side close out a 1-0 win at the Emirates Stadium and seal a historic return to the European final.
However, his limited involvement again highlighted an ongoing issue — his fitness.
Martin Ødegaard responds to Arsenal injury concerns
Ødegaard has endured a stop-start campaign due to recurring injury problems, missing significant time across the season.
The Norway international has suffered multiple setbacks, limiting both his club minutes and his availability for international duty.
Speaking after the win over Atlético Madrid, Ødegaard offered a measured update on his condition.
“We have to take it a little day by day.” — Martin Ødegaard
That cautious tone reflects the uncertainty surrounding his situation.
From Arsenal’s recent matches, it has been clear that the club are managing his workload carefully to avoid further setbacks.
Arsenal managing Ødegaard carefully ahead of key fixtures
Ødegaard’s fitness has been described as “not ideal” in recent days, with Norway manager Ståle Solbakken expressing concern before the semi-final.
The midfielder was absent from open training ahead of the Atlético clash, adding to doubts over his readiness. Despite that, he was still able to contribute from the bench.
Having followed Arsenal’s season closely, Arteta has often preferred a cautious approach with key players returning from injury. That is likely to continue.
With both the Premier League title race and a Champions League final still to come, the stakes are simply too high to take unnecessary risks.
Declan Rice highlights Ødegaard importance to Arsenal
Ødegaard’s influence on Arsenal has been emphasised by teammates, including Declan Rice.
Rice underlined how important the captain remains to the team’s overall level.
“When we have him, we are such a much better team.” — Declan Rice
That impact goes beyond goals and assists.
Ødegaard’s role in linking play, controlling tempo and leading pressing phases has been central to Arsenal’s rise under Mikel Arteta.
Ødegaard’s injury-hit season in numbers
Despite limited availability, his contribution remains significant when fit.
| Stat (2025/26) | Martin Ødegaard |
|---|---|
| Injuries suffered | 7 |
| Days missed | 137 |
| Matches missed | 25 |
| Recent appearances | 4 |
source: season data – 5 May 2026
Those numbers highlight just how disrupted his campaign has been.
However, his presence in key moments still matters.
Key insights
- Martin Ødegaard is managing an ongoing fitness issue
- The Arsenal captain came off the bench vs Atlético Madrid
- Norway manager Ståle Solbakken described his situation as “not ideal”
- Declan Rice says Arsenal are stronger with Ødegaard in the team
- Arsenal have major fixtures remaining in both league and Europe
What’s next?
Arsenal will continue to monitor Ødegaard’s condition closely ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
Matches against West Ham, Burnley and Crystal Palace remain in the Premier League, followed by the Champions League final later this month.
His availability could be decisive.
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