Odegaard Injury Update: Norway Manager Says Arsenal Star Still ‘Some Distance Away’

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has received a concerning update from Norway manager Stale Solbakken, who says the midfielder remains “some distance away” from a full return. The new Odegaard injury update arrives as the national team prepares for crucial World Cup qualifiers. Solbakken confirmed that Odegaard will travel to Norway for rehab but will not play.

The midfielder has been sidelined since early October, and despite earlier optimism from reports in England, Norway’s latest assessment suggests a slower timeline. This development matters for both club and country, with Arsenal monitoring his progress closely.

Norway Manager Provides Candid Odegaard Injury Update

Solbakken addressed the situation in a press conference, offering a detailed outlook on the midfielder’s status. He explained that Odegaard’s progress is steady but noted he is “some distance away” from returning to action. The national team will oversee his rehabilitation during the international break, but there is no consideration of playing him.

The Norway boss confirmed that Odegaard will join the squad in Oslo after completing his rehab session in England. He will train under national team medical staff until their match in Milan. Solbakken stressed that the plan is purely supportive and precautionary. Outlets such as BBC News and Reuters have regularly covered similar national team decisions for key players.

Odegaard’s absence comes at a pivotal moment for Norway. The team is close to securing World Cup qualification, sitting three points above Italy with two matches remaining. A win against Estonia would put them in a strong position, although the final group match against Italy still looms large.

For Arsenal, the situation is equally important. The club had hoped Odegaard would be available shortly after the break, but Solbakken’s comments suggest the path to recovery may extend further. His injury occurred against West Ham in early October, and he has not featured since. His creativity, leadership, and rhythm have been noticeably missing from Arsenal’s midfield.

How This Update Shapes Arsenal and Norway’s Plans

For Norway, Odegaard’s presence—even in a non-playing role—carries emotional weight. He did the same during the previous international break, supporting the squad from the sidelines. His leadership remains invaluable as the team faces one of its most important qualification windows in years.

For Arsenal, this update forces caution. The club will avoid rushing their captain back, especially with a congested schedule ahead. His ability to dictate tempo, create chances, and control transitions is central to Arsenal’s identity on the pitch. A premature return could jeopardize long-term stability.

With the season’s decisive months approaching, personal well-being takes priority. Both national and club managers appear aligned in ensuring his recovery stays on a stable path.

The Odegaard injury update underscores a slower recovery than expected. Arsenal and Norway will continue coordinating his rehab carefully. Fans may need to wait a little longer before seeing him back at full strength.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Odegaard injury update?

Norway manager Stale Solbakken says Odegaard is still “some distance away” from returning. He will rehab with the national team but will not play.

Q2: Will Martin Odegaard play for Norway during the break?

No. He will travel to Norway only to continue rehabilitation and support the team. There are no plans for him to take the field.

Q3: When could Odegaard return for Arsenal?

He was previously expected to return after the international break, but the latest comments suggest his recovery may take longer.

Q4: How does this affect Norway’s World Cup qualifiers?

Norway can still secure qualification without him, but his leadership is significant. He will support from the bench and dressing room.

Q5: What injury did Martin Odegaard suffer?

He suffered a knee issue in early October. The exact recovery timeline remains uncertain based on current assessments.