Martin Ødegaard missed Arsenal's 2-0 Champions League win over Athletic Club due to a shoulder injury.
The Norwegian midfielder is pushing for a return against Manchester City this weekend.

What happened?

Ødegaard landed awkwardly on his shoulder during Arsenal's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest last week.

Why it matters for Martin Ødegaard

This is a recurrence of the shoulder injury suffered by the 26-year-old during Arsenal's 5-0 victory over Leeds United last month, Mikel Arteta confirmed.

The manager stated it was unlikely Ødegaard would require surgery.

What comes next?

Ødegaard spent an extended period out injured last season after picking up an ankle problem.

He has typically had minor injury issues whilst at the Emirates Stadium, with a propensity to recover quickly from small knocks and sprains.

Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz are all expected to be out for this weekend's clash with City.

Saka could be a late inclusion, but Ødegaard's return is still uncertain.

On Tuesday, Ødegaard missed training, which necessitated his absence from the matchday squad versus Athletic Club.

The Gunners host Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, knowing three points will be essential to gain early ground in the title race.

Ødegaard's injury issues have been a concern for Arsenal, particularly given rivals City and Liverpool's respective starts.

The Norway international's quick recovery from minor knocks has been a positive for the team.

Arsenal's title hopes may depend on Ødegaard's fitness, as they face a tough fixture list ahead.

The midfielder's experience and skill will be crucial in the upcoming matches.

Ødegaard's return to fitness is eagerly anticipated by Arsenal fans, who hope to see him back on the pitch soon.

The Gunners' medical team will be working to get Ødegaard back to full fitness as soon as possible.

A fit Ødegaard would be a significant boost to Arsenal's title chances, as they look to close the gap on their rivals.

The Norwegian midfielder's importance to the team cannot be overstated, and his return is eagerly awaited.

Arsenal's chances of winning the title depend on many factors, but Ødegaard's fitness is a key one.

The team's performance in the upcoming matches will be closely watched, as they look to make a strong start to the season.

Ødegaard's injury update will be closely monitored, as Arsenal fans hope for a speedy recovery.

The midfielder's experience and leadership will be crucial in the title race, and his return to fitness is eagerly anticipated.