Arsenal’s Odegaard Facing Eight-Week Outdue to Ankle Injury – A Major Blow for Gunners Ahead of Manchester City Clash
Martin Odegaard, Arsenal’s 25-year-old skipper, is set to be out for eight weeks after suffering an ankle injury during Norway’s international match against Austria. The setback will be a massive blow to the Gunners ahead of their crucial Premier League encounter against reigning champions Manchester City this Sunday.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta revealed that Odegaard’s ankle is still not reacting well, and they need to monitor the injury for the next week or so before giving a precise timeframe for his return. Meanwhile, City are facing an injury concern of their own, with Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne doubtful for the clash.
"We have a few missing as well and we have to adapt, but certainly those kinds of teams don’t rely on one individual, which is extremely important for them," Arteta said in his pre-match press conference. The Spanish manager, however, was full of praise for City’s quality, stating that they have world-class players in various positions, including Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, and Mateo Kovacic.
On the flip side, Pep Guardiola said that De Bruyne’s injury is still uncertain and that they will have a better idea of his availability after training tomorrow. When asked about the rivalry with Arsenal, the City manager acknowledged that it has always been a tight game in recent years due to the Gunners’ solidity in various aspects of the game.
[Image credit: Getty]
As we count down to this massive showdown, both teams are sure to face their fair share of challenges. While Odegaard’s injury might weaken Arsenal’s attack, City’s own squad concerns could prove costly against an in-form Arsenal team.
Will Arsenal’s loss inspire City to claim an important win, or will Arteta’s men pull off a major upset without their star skipper? Keep an eye out for more updates and expert analysis throughout the day!
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