Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard has provided a crucial update on his fitness following his decision to withdraw from Norway’s upcoming international fixtures. The 25-year-old midfielder, who has been a pivotal figure for both club and country, made headlines when he chose to step away from international duty after a lengthy recovery from an ankle injury. The decision has raised questions about Ødegaard’s fitness, but the player has been transparent about his situation, shedding light on the gradual process of his recovery.
Ødegaard, who had been sidelined for two months due to an ankle injury, made his return to competitive action just last week. He featured in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday, marking his first appearance after a period of rehabilitation. Although the Norwegian midfielder looked sharp and composed during the match, it appears that the intensity of his recovery and the quick turnaround from injury have taken their toll.
Despite having only recently returned to action, Ødegaard was initially included in Norway’s squad for this month’s international fixtures. However, after discussions with the national team’s medical staff, the Arsenal captain made the difficult decision to withdraw from the squad ahead of their Nations League games against Slovenia and Kazakhstan. It was a choice made with his long-term fitness in mind, as Ødegaard looks to avoid risking further setbacks in his recovery process.
In an exclusive interview with Norwegian broadcaster TV2, Ødegaard explained his decision, emphasizing that he felt it was essential to continue his rehabilitation and not rush back into international duty. “I managed to play the game on Sunday, but it was a quick transition after the last nine weeks of recovery,” Ødegaard said. “I’ve worked closely with the Norwegian medical team, and we all agreed that it’s better for me to stay at Arsenal and complete my recovery.”
Ødegaard’s decision to stay with his club and focus on his recovery is seen as a positive for Arsenal, as they will be able to ensure he receives the best possible treatment and fitness work without the added pressure of international fixtures. The player himself also acknowledged that his journey back to full fitness is still ongoing, and that it’s a gradual process. “It’s a gradual process from injury to full fitness,” he explained. “Sometimes you experience reactions to the work you do. I’ve been in close contact with the Norwegian medical team, and we agreed it was the best decision for me to stay and recover properly.”
Although Ødegaard’s absence from the international fixtures is disappointing for Norway, it was a decision made with the utmost consideration for his health. He reassured fans that neither Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta nor Norway head coach Ståle Solbakken had pressured him into this decision. “We’ve had open, constructive conversations,” Ødegaard said. “I’ve been in contact with Ståle since my injury and especially over the past weeks. Both he and I were eager for me to join the national team, but the decision ultimately depends on my personal fitness.”
For Arsenal, Ødegaard’s decision to prioritize his recovery over international duty is a boost, as the club will now be able to fully focus on his fitness ahead of a crucial run of domestic fixtures. Ødegaard will likely be aiming to be in peak condition for Arsenal’s next match, which is against Nottingham Forest on November 23. The midfielder remains optimistic about his return to full fitness, saying, “I hope to be ready for that game. I’ll continue my recovery and follow up with further assessments, and we’ll see how things progress next week.”
Ødegaard’s commitment to his recovery is a positive sign for both Arsenal and Norway fans, as his leadership and creativity are vital to the success of both teams. With Arsenal in the thick of the Premier League title race and Norway fighting for qualification in the Nations League, having their captain fully fit will be crucial to their ambitions. The coming weeks will be key in determining how quickly Ødegaard can reach peak fitness, but for now, he is focused on ensuring that he does not push himself too hard, too soon.
As Arsenal continues their push for the top of the Premier League, Ødegaard’s return to full fitness will be an important factor in their success. His ability to dictate play, break down opposition defences, and contribute with goals and assists has been a standout feature of his game since arriving at the club, and his leadership in midfield will be sorely missed should his recovery take longer than expected.
For now, Arsenal fans will be relieved to know that Ødegaard is making his recovery a top priority, and the hope is that he will be able to return to full fitness in time for key matches ahead, including the match against Nottingham Forest. His decision to skip Norway’s international fixtures in order to focus on his rehabilitation may be a short-term disappointment for the national team, but it is undoubtedly the right call for the long-term benefit of both Ødegaard and his club. Fans will be watching closely as the midfielder continues his recovery, eager for his return to full action and leadership on the pitch.
