Mikel Arteta Arsenal
Arsenal is currently grappling with a series of injury concerns that could impact their Premier League campaign. Martin Odegaard, the club’s influential playmaker, is set to miss seven crucial matches due to a knee injury sustained before October’s international break. Meanwhile, Noni Madueke and Gabriel Jesus are also sidelined, adding to Mikel Arteta’s selection challenges.
Mikel Arteta said: “Martin will continue to be assessed and treated by our medical team at Sobha Realty Training Centre during the international window, with the aim of a return to action as soon as possible.”
Odegaard’s absence is a significant blow for Arsenal, who are aiming to improve upon last season’s performance and secure the Premier League title. According to BBC Sport, the Norwegian international is expected to return to action by November 23, just in time for Arsenal’s clash against Tottenham. His injury occurred during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over West Ham, and the club will be relieved that it is not a long-term issue.
Mikel Arteta said: “He will be available after the international break. So we’ve been trying to do everything as fast as possible but this came too fast. Now we have the international break and hopefully after that, he will have a couple of sessions with the team and be ready to go.”
Piero Hincapie, another key player, has been missing from Arsenal’s last four matchday squads due to a groin injury. However, Arteta is optimistic about his return, with the defender expected to be back in action against Fulham on October 18.
Mikel Arteta said: “Yes, it looks like he’s going to be out for a few weeks… We don’t know yet, we’re probably going to have to scan him next week again. He felt something at the beginning of the match, he tried to carry on, and at half-time, he was too sore, so let’s see. We hope [it’s weeks rather than months]. As I said, we need to scan him again to see the real extent of the injury, but it doesn’t look too bad.”
Noni Madueke, who had a promising start to the season, is also sidelined with a knee injury. Arteta mentioned that Madueke’s condition will be reassessed next week, but the winger is not expected to return until November 2025. His injury is a setback for Arsenal, especially after he went off injured against Manchester City.
Mikel Arteta said: “With Kai, we know it will be months with him. I don’t know if it can be weeks, you never know because this is Kai and he’s a different specimen. We really miss him. Hopefully, he will be back, and back for the long term as well, so it is very important to look after that knee. So far, he’s progressing pretty well.”
Gabriel Jesus, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury at the start of the year, is another long-term absentee for Arsenal. Arteta confirmed that Jesus underwent major surgery and is not expected to return until January 2026. His absence leaves a significant gap in Arsenal’s attacking options, and the club will be eager for his return in the New Year.
The series of injuries presents a challenging period for Arsenal as they navigate the Premier League season. The club’s medical team remains focused on ensuring a swift and safe return for all players involved.