Martin Odegaard's knee problem is described as "nothing serious" by Norway’s boss after he missed recent Arsenal matches. Betting outcome: punters can still back Arsenal in upcoming fixtures, but avoid Odegaard player-goal/assist props until he’s fully fit — prefer team-win or handicap markets if his starting status is doubtful.
Odegaard injury update: Norway boss plays down knee issue
Martin Odegaard has missed Arsenal’s recent Premier League wins over Chelsea and Brighton with a recurring knee complaint, but Norway manager Stale Solbakken insists the problem is minor and the captain should make a full recovery in time for the decisive run-in and the summer World Cup.
How the knock happened and recent absences
Odegaard first picked up the issue during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw at Brentford when he appeared to hurt his knee attempting to stop Keane Lewis-Potter’s equaliser. He then missed the FA Cup fourth-round win over Wigan and the 2-2 draw at Wolves, returned from the bench in the North London Derby, but has since been absent for key league fixtures against Chelsea and Brighton.
Injury history this season
This campaign has been disrupted by several injuries for the 27-year-old. He suffered shoulder problems that forced early substitutions against Leeds and Nottingham Forest in August and September, then endured an MCL knee injury on October 4 that kept him out until late November, when he returned as a substitute in the Champions League win over Bayern Munich. Despite the setbacks, he has still made 20 Premier League appearances.
Comments from camp
Solbakken said Odegaard’s knock is not serious and emphasised the importance of a full recovery ahead of the World Cup. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta offered a cautious update before the Amex match, replying “we’ll see” when asked about his skipper’s return, signalling the club will prioritise fitness over rushed comebacks.
Implications for Arsenal and Norway
Arsenal remain optimistic that Odegaard will be available and influential during the club’s multi-competition push, while Norway count on him for the summer World Cup. He missed Norway’s final three qualifiers but supported the squad as they sealed qualification.
Betting implications and actionable guidance
With the injury described as minor but causing recent absences, punters should monitor team sheets before placing player-specific bets. Practical approaches:
- Avoid backing Odegaard for goal/assist props until he is confirmed fit and starting.
- Consider Arsenal match-winner or handicap markets if team news suggests he may be eased back in from the bench.
- If odds shorten without clarity on his status, value may be found in alternative player props or squad-level markets.
What to watch next
Follow Arsenal’s official match-day updates and team announcements for confirmation of Odegaard’s minutes. His recovery timeline will determine whether he contributes to Arsenal’s late-season push and Norway’s World Cup preparations.
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Martin Odegaard initially suffered a minor knee injury during Arsenal's 1-1 draw at Brentford last month and he has missed the club's past two matches despite recently returning to action against Tottenham
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