Martin Odegaard’s decision to withdraw from international duty with Norway is a significant boost for Arsenal, especially as he works toward regaining his full fitness. Having just returned from an injury that kept him out since the September international break, Odegaard is clearly focusing on his recovery to avoid any potential setbacks. Arsenal struggled creatively without him, highlighting his critical role within the team, and his return over the weekend against Chelsea demonstrated just how important he is in Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup.
Norway, where Odegaard serves as captain, had been eagerly awaiting his comeback, especially given their struggles without his leadership during the October international window. Yet, after arriving at Norway’s training camp, he and the national medical staff mutually decided he wasn’t fully prepared to take part in the upcoming matches. In a statement shared with The Independent, Odegaard explained, “After discussions with the medical staff at the national team, we have unfortunately concluded that the situation is not good enough to play these matches. I’ve been through a long training period, and when you haven’t practiced football in the last nine weeks, it’s natural not to be 100 percent yet.”
This cautious approach to Odegaard’s recovery underscores his commitment to returning to peak form with Arsenal while balancing his national team responsibilities carefully. As he continues his rehabilitation, staying in London will allow him to rest and work on building his fitness under Arsenal’s supervision, reducing the risk of aggravating his previous injury. Given his influence on the pitch and his role as Arsenal’s creative engine, this choice seems beneficial both for his health and for the team’s success.
Odegaard’s decision to prioritise his recovery sends a strong message about his commitment to performing consistently at the highest level. Arsenal fans and management alike will likely see this as a positive move, ensuring he can return fully fit and help Arsenal maintain their position in the Premier League title race.
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It’s good to see that sense has prevailed, and Odegaard, Saka and Rice have stayed behind with Arsenal to continue recovery from respective injury’s.
I don’t know if anyone else agrees, but I don’t really care what they do for there country’s, its what they do for there club that really counts.
Derek,
We have found common ground for the most part on your post. I am always on tenterhooks and love it when the league resumes.
I follow England with one eye, so to speak, and want them to do well. Club v country and until there is a proper tournament to follow and be part of, watching England generally faff about doesn’t whet the appetite
Sue,
Just a comment on your watching England at proper tournaments, I agree with you.
For me there should only be two tournaments.
The World Cup and the Euro’s for the European teams.
And the same for the African teams with their African Cup of Nations plus the World Cup.
And the same with the South American teams with their equivalent tournament plus the World Cup.
Plus the other change I would make is, to do away with all but one friendly games.
Before each of the two tournaments mentioned, each nation are allowed one warm up friendly.
That way it is the same for all nations.
Also without these meaningless money making tournaments, it would give the player’s a bit more rest that there always bleating on about.
That was one heck of a long comment, wasn’t it. (Sorry about that).
What are your thoughts, on this subject.
A welcome decision. Looked to have learned his lesson.
I agree with the sentiment expressed by DEREK.
Why on earth players who are carrying injuries, or have just come back from one, is beyond me.
Ben White has shown the way and it’s done him no harm.