Martin Odegaard Injury Update: Arsenal Captain Targeting Return Against Manchester City

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is expected to make a swift return from a shoulder injury sustained during the Gunners’ 3–0 win over Nottingham Forest, with hopes high that he could be fit in time for this weekend’s Premier League clash against Manchester City.

⚠️ Injury Recap: A Familiar Concern

Odegaard was forced off in the first half at the Emirates after a collision involving teammate Jurrien Timber and Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White. The Norwegian landed heavily on his left shoulder and was visibly in discomfort before being replaced by teenager Ethan Nwaneri.

This marks the second time this season Odegaard has been sidelined with a shoulder issue, having also exited early against Leeds United in August. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed post-match that it was the same shoulder affected, though he was quick to downplay the severity, stating that surgery would not be required.

🩺 Expert Insight: AC Joint Injury Likely

Stephen Smith, CEO of Kitman Labs and an expert in injury analytics, believes Odegaard is dealing with a low-grade acromioclavicular (AC) ligament injury — a condition more common in rugby than football.

“It looked mostly like an AC injury… When you fall down onto your shoulder, that can get separated,” Smith told Metro. “From the commentary we’ve heard [from Arsenal], they are not concerned at all about that.”

Smith ruled out a broken collarbone and suggested a recovery timeline of 7 to 14 days, meaning Odegaard could return to training this week and potentially feature against Manchester City.

🛡️ Precautionary Measures

While Odegaard missed Monday’s training and Arsenal’s Champions League opener against Athletic Bilbao, Smith noted that the club may opt for protective strapping and non-contact training to ease him back into full fitness.

“They may do things like that but I would expect he will be back doing the vast majority of activities as long as there is not too much pain associated with it.”

🤕 Arsenal’s Growing Injury List

Odegaard’s setback adds to Arsenal’s early-season injury woes:

• Bukayo Saka is recovering from a hamstring injury sustained against Leeds.
• Kai Havertz is sidelined following minor knee surgery.
• William Saliba has missed the last two matches due to an ankle sprain.

Despite these challenges, Arsenal have started the season strongly, winning four of their five matches across all competitions and conceding just one goal.

🔮 Looking Ahead

With a crucial fixture against Manchester City looming, Arteta will be eager to have his captain back on the pitch. Odegaard’s leadership and creativity are vital to Arsenal’s rhythm, and his potential return could provide a timely boost as the Gunners aim to maintain their momentum and challenge for silverware.

All eyes will be on the training ground this week — and if Odegaard’s recovery continues as expected, he may yet lead his side out against the reigning champions.