Mikel Arteta Arsenal
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury against West Ham earlier this season. While manager Mikel Arteta had hoped for the return of several key players, including Odegaard, following the international break, Norway head coach Stale Solbakken indicated that the midfielder’s return to play might still be some time away.
Stale Solbakken said: “It is steady. It is going in a steady direction, but he is some distance away.”
Odegaard has faced multiple fitness challenges this season, including two shoulder injuries before the current knee issue. Despite these setbacks, he has remained committed to supporting his teammates off the field. Arteta emphasized Odegaard’s responsibilities as a captain during this crucial phase of the season.
Mikel Arteta said: “He’s the captain. He needs to drive the standard. He needs to be the example. He needs to bring that next to that. So that’s it. When you don’t have an option, you are a dad. You have to look after your kids. You have to be there. You are good. You are tired. You don’t, you have to be there. That’s his responsibility in the team.”
Odegaard, also the captain of the Norwegian national team, chose to join his national squad instead of taking time off, demonstrating his dedication and leadership. Before his injury, he played a pivotal role in Norway’s World Cup qualifying campaign, contributing significantly with goals and assists.
The selection of Odegaard as Arsenal captain was confirmed by a decisive vote in the dressing room, with Arteta noting the overwhelming support for the midfielder.
Mikel Arteta said: “By a mile, by a big, big 100 marks, everybody chose the same person, which is Martin Odegaard, which is the most clear sign that you can have, how they feel about who has to be their captain to defend, improve and win the matches that we want to win. So, I mean, there’s no question about that.”
Odegaard himself acknowledged that the previous season did not meet his personal standards. However, his influence extends beyond the pitch, as highlighted by teammate Declan Rice.
Declan Rice said: “Yeah, he’s incredible, he’s our leader, he’s our captain. He trains every single day, he plays every minute of every single game, he’s one of the best lads I have seen away from the pitch in terms of how he lives his life. He’s got the full respect of the dressing room, the way he demands, the way he drives the team, the way he speaks. You wouldn’t see him as that type of character, but he really is behind the scenes.”
Despite his current injury, Odegaard’s leadership and commitment continue to earn him respect and admiration from both his club and national teammates. His determination to support his teams, even while off the field, underscores his role as a pivotal figure in both Arsenal and Norway’s footballing ambitions.
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