Mikel Arteta has announced that Martin Ødegaard will be sidelined for “weeks” due to an MCL injury in his left knee, as Arsenal looks ahead to their match against Fulham this Saturday.
The Arsenal captain sustained the injury during the 2-0 victory over West Ham on October 4, colliding with Crysencio Summerville in the first half before being substituted and spotted later in a knee brace.
In comments made ahead of the Fulham fixture, Arteta provided a cautious update on Ødegaard’s condition. “It will be weeks,” he stated. “There’s no set timeline for his return, but he’s making good progress.”
“It’s very unfortunate for him to be dealing with injuries this season. I believe he could return in a few weeks, possibly after the next international break, but we’ll continue to monitor how he heals and how he responds to the next steps in his rehabilitation, so it’s too early to say for sure.”
In other news, Martin Zubimendi missed training on Thursday but is expected to be available for selection.
“All the players have different backgrounds and match loads, and we thought it was best for him to take some extra time off. He’s had a heavy workload recently, playing two games, and he needed the rest. He will be ready to go,” Arteta commented.
Ben White and Piero Hincapié are also being closely observed, with Hincapié back in full training following recovery from a groin injury sustained on his debut against Athletic Club after undergoing surgery in the summer.
“He will train with us today, and if all goes well, he’ll be available as well,” Arteta confirmed. “We’re eager to have him back. He’s a player who can make a significant impact for us.”
“He will bring a different dimension to the team. We need to get him match-fit and up to the competitive speed required at this level.”
There’s more encouraging news regarding Noni Madueke, who is also on the verge of a return from a knee injury. “He’s getting closer,” Arteta stated. “He’s about to start running again, and we’ll monitor how that progresses.”
Kai Havertz is still recovering from knee surgery and remains sidelined. He has been out since the season opener, but Arteta praised his commitment. “It’s a tough road ahead. There’s a lot of rehabilitation left.”
“He’s really dedicated, which is why we appreciate him. However, we must be patient and ensure that when he returns, it’s for the long haul.”
Lastly, Gabriel Jesus is also unavailable and is not expected to return until 2026.
As Arsenal heads to Craven Cottage, they sit atop the Premier League table, one point ahead of Liverpool, having won their last four matches in all competitions.
Fulham, on the other hand, is looking to end a streak of two consecutive defeats as both teams gear up for an important clash in the capital.
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