Overview
- Ståle Solbakken told Viaplay there is nothing serious about Martin Odegaard’s knee problem but indicated a likely timeframe of late March for any comeback.
- Mikel Arteta has offered cautious updates, saying Odegaard is still not totally comfortable and declining to set a return date.
- The midfielder has missed recent wins over Chelsea and Brighton after a brief substitute appearance in the derby at Tottenham, following earlier absences against Wigan and Wolves.
- Based on Solbakken’s guidance and fixture timing, Odegaard is expected to be sidelined for the FA Cup tie at Mansfield, the league game against Everton and both Champions League legs versus Bayer Leverkusen.
- This setback follows an injury-hit season that included a two‑month layoff for an MCL knee injury and recurring shoulder issues, while Norway stress full recovery ahead of the summer World Cup after friendlies later this month.