🔴 Arteta Confirms Odegaard Set to Miss Several Weeks with Knee Injury as Arsenal Prepare for Fulham Clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a sobering injury update ahead of the Gunners’ Premier League trip to Fulham, revealing that captain Martin Ødegaard will be sidelined for the foreseeable future due to a knee injury sustained before the international break. With the title race heating up and rivals Liverpool close behind, Arsenal’s squad depth is set to be tested in the coming weeks.

Ødegaard Sidelined with No Set Return Date

Arteta addressed the media in the build-up to Arsenal’s weekend clash against Fulham, confirming that Martin Ødegaard will be out for “weeks” and that there’s currently no fixed timeline for the Norwegian’s return.

“He’s evolving well, but there’s no definite date,” Arteta explained. “It’s unfortunate, but he’ll be out for a few weeks. He’s been doing everything possible to avoid injuries, and sometimes these things are just unavoidable.”

This news comes as a blow to Arsenal, especially with Ødegaard’s leadership and creativity being central to their title push. Despite this setback, Arteta expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to adapt during the captain’s absence.

Additional Injury Updates: Havertz and Madueke Progressing

Arteta also provided updates on other injured players. Kai Havertz is still undergoing an intensive rehabilitation program and remains a few steps away from returning to full training. However, Arteta praised the German’s determination to beat recovery expectations.

Meanwhile, Noni Madueke is getting closer to returning to action and will soon begin running drills as part of his comeback.

Declan Rice Embracing an Evolving Midfield Role

As Arsenal navigate the season with a reshuffled squad, Arteta discussed how Declan Rice has grown into a more dynamic role in the midfield. The former West Ham captain has adapted quickly and is forming strong connections with his teammates.

“With eight new players, naturally, new relationships develop,” said Arteta. “We’re working to bring out the best in him and build chemistry that helps the whole team perform at a higher level.”

Hincapie Ready to Impress

One of the more exciting developments is the return of young defender Piero Hincapie to full training. Supporters have been eager to see the Ecuadorian make his first start, and Arteta didn’t hold back in describing what he brings to the team.

“You’ll see a lot of aggression and intensity,” Arteta said. “He’s fearless in challenges and technically very clean. He likes to drive forward with the ball and break lines.”

Arteta Defends Gyökeres Amid Goal Drought

Viktor Gyökeres’ recent struggles in front of goal have raised eyebrows among fans, but Arteta remains supportive of the Swedish striker. Despite going six games without scoring, the Arsenal boss emphasized the striker’s value beyond just goals.

“I told him before – if you’re wearing the number nine for Arsenal, you need to be mentally strong. But he offers more than just goals. He creates space, draws defenders, and opens up opportunities for others,” Arteta noted.