Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has faced another setback as captain Martin Ødegaard has picked up an injury while on international duty with Norway. The 25-year-old was leading Norway against Austria in their UEFA Nations League match after a disappointing goalless draw with Kazakhstan.
Ødegaard was substituted in the 67th minute due to an ankle injury, though Norway secured a 1-0 victory thanks to an Erling Haaland goal in the 80th minute. However, Arteta faces the possibility of missing Ødegaard for the upcoming North London Derby against Tottenham this weekend.
Arsenal’s injury woes have compounded their challenges as they prepare for the crucial fixture. Prior to the international break, Arsenal had drawn 1-1 with Brighton, and the team was looking to return to winning form against Tottenham. However, Arsenal will be without several key players for the match. Declan Rice was already confirmed to miss the game due to a suspension from the Brighton match, and new signing Mikel Merino is sidelined with a shoulder injury. Additionally, Riccardo Calafiori has joined the injury list after suffering a setback while on duty with Italy.
Arteta will need to adjust his plans as he deals with the growing list of unavailable players.