Arsenal expect Martin Ødegaard to miss the next six weeks after sustaining medial collateral ligament damage to his left knee during the 2-0 victory over West Ham United. The injury occurred when the midfielder clashed with Crysencio Summerville in the first half, and despite attempting to continue, he was eventually replaced.
The 26-year-old underwent tests that confirmed the ligament injury, and while surgery is not required, the club anticipates he will be absent until after the international break beginning on 10 November. This timeframe rules him out of seven matches, including Premier League fixtures against Fulham, Crystal Palace, Burnley, and Sunderland, Champions League meetings with Atlético Madrid and Slavia Prague, and a Carabao Cup tie against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Arsenal hope Ødegaard could return for the north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on 23 November. The captain has previously missed time this season with a shoulder problem and spent almost two months on the sidelines last term due to an ankle injury picked up on international duty.
In Ødegaard's absence, Eberechi Eze has taken on a creative midfield role, while young forward Ethan Nwaneri has also impressed. The club will also have to cope without Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Noni Madueke, who are all injured. Summer signing Piero Hincapié, who has made only one substitute appearance, is expected to return after the international break from a groin problem.
