Odegaard sidelined for at least six weeks due to ankle injury

Dr. Ola Sand from Norway recently discussed with the Norwegian publication Verdens Gang the results of a scan that indicated the Arsenal captain may have managed to prevent fracturing his ankle.

What we have so far obtained from the MRI examination in London is that there is probably no fracture in the ankle,” Sand told Norwegian newspaper Verdens Gang. 

“Such ankle injuries often take at least three weeks. Anything other than that is just a bonus. And then it can take longer. 

“Both Stale (Solbakken) and I know that that collection hangs in the balance. It is not excluded. But we have to wait and see both what the MRI images show and how quickly he responds to treatment. 

“Ankle injuries are very painful right away. With Martin, it was extremely painful. He became very worried. 

“They are studying the MRI images now, and have sent them on. In the event of a fracture, we are talking about being out of action for six weeks plus.” 

This means Odegaard will miss vital games against Tottenham, Manchester City, Atalanta and many more which could potentially cost the Gunners the title early on in the season especially with the amount of injuries they already have. 

Arsenal will miss Declan Rice against Spurs due to suspension and already have Mikel Merino, Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel Jesus and Takehiro Tomiyasu out in the medical room which leaves manager Mikel Arteta without many options.