Martin Odegaard remains a doubt for Norway’s upcoming meeting with Wales after missing training on Tuesday due to an ankle injury sustained during a match against Portugal. Arsenal are maintaining constant communication with the Norway national team’s medical staff as they monitor the midfielder’s recovery during the international break.
Odegaard’s Ankle Injury Threatens Wales Clash
The Arsenal midfielder picked up the problem late in Norway’s game against Portugal after a challenge from Bernardo Silva. Odegaard expressed clear frustration over the tackle at the time and afterward, bluntly describing it as a challenge that “doesn’t belong on a football field.” He subsequently left the stadium limping, creating immediate concern for Arsenal during the international break.
For now, Norway manager Stale Solbakken confirmed that no final call has been made on the player’s availability. Norway faces Wales on Thursday before traveling to Porto for a return fixture against Portugal on Sunday. Odegaard’s involvement in either fixture remains uncertain while his ankle stays painful enough to keep him out of full training.
Constant Medical Contact Between Norway and Arsenal
Clubs closely track player fitness during international windows, and Arsenal are being kept fully informed of every development. Solbakken explained that communication with the Premier League club is ongoing. “The medical sector reports what has happened, and now it is the case that every metre you run here, and all training and everything you have done, is sent to the club,” Solbakken said, adding that four or five people manage the continuous medical contact.
Norway Camp Update: Assistant coach Brede Hangeland offered a more optimistic outlook on Tuesday, noting that Odegaard appeared in the breakfast room in good spirits with reduced pain compared to the previous day. Hangeland stated that the player would be allowed to manage his training workload according to how his ankle feels.
Mounting International Break Concerns for Arsenal
Odegaard’s fitness setback adds to a frustrating international window for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. Kai Havertz already returned to the club early after picking up a hamstring issue. Meanwhile, Ezri Konsa also missed England training with a reported minor problem, highlighting the physical toll exacted on players during the competitive calendar.
Common Questions Regarding the Injury Status
How did Martin Odegaard injure his ankle?
Odegaard sustained the ankle injury late in Norway’s match against Portugal following a challenge by Bernardo Silva.
Will Martin Odegaard play against Wales?
His availability remains uncertain. Norway manager Stale Solbakken stated that no final decision has been made as the midfielder recovers from pain that kept him out of full training.
Is Arsenal in touch with the Norway national team?
Yes. Solbakken confirmed that Norway’s medical staff maintains continuous contact with Arsenal, sharing daily training metrics and medical reports.
Which other Arsenal player has returned early from international duty?
Kai Havertz returned to Arsenal early during the break due to a hamstring issue.
Related reading