Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard has rejoined Norway's training camp in Cardiff after sustaining an ankle injury during Sunday's Nations League match against Portugal. The 27-year-old was forced off the pitch in the final minutes of the game following a late challenge from Bernardo Silva. Norway's medical staff kept Ødegaard out of training on Tuesday as a precaution, but scans returned encouraging results, showing no serious damage to his ankle.
Ødegaard's fitness had raised alarm bells across north London, given his importance to Mikel Arteta's plans this season. The Norwegian has made a strong start to the campaign, netting four goals in eight appearances for Arsenal. The club is understood to be in regular contact with the Norwegian Football Federation throughout the international break, keen to ensure that no further risk is taken with his recovery.
Norway head coach Ståle Solbakken was cautious when asked about Ødegaard's availability for the match against Wales, saying he would like to confirm his participation but couldn't. Solbakken hinted, however, that Ødegaard would not have joined the squad if there was no chance of him featuring. The midfielder was due to test his ankle during Wednesday's training session before a final decision on his involvement was made.
The development will come as considerable relief at the Emirates, given Ødegaard's central role in Arsenal's season so far. His return to the training pitch is a step in the right direction, but the coming days will be decisive in determining whether he lines up against Wales and, crucially, whether he returns to Arsenal fully fit when the international break concludes.
Ødegaard's injury is not the only concern for Premier League clubs, as Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is also dealing with an injury. Fernandes reportedly played through pain in his previous three club appearances, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of United's crucial Premier League clash with Tottenham.
Norway's match against Wales will be an important test for Ødegaard's fitness, and Solbakken will be eager to assess his captain's condition before making a final decision on his involvement. The Norwegian Football Federation will likely take a cautious approach with Ødegaard's recovery, given his importance to both club and country.
For now, Ødegaard's ankle remains a situation to watch rather than a long-term concern. His participation in the match against Wales will depend on his progress in the coming days, and Arsenal fans will be keeping a close eye on his recovery as the international break concludes.
Key points
- Martin Ødegaard suffered an ankle injury during Norway's match against Portugal, but scans showed no serious damage.
- Ødegaard's availability for the match against Wales is uncertain, with Norway head coach Ståle Solbakken taking a cautious approach.
- Arsenal is keeping a close watch on Ødegaard's recovery, given his central role in the team's season so far.
