Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that club captain Martin Ødegaard will miss the team's Champions League opener against Athletic Club due to a recurring shoulder injury.
Ødegaard sustained the setback during Arsenal’s recent 3–0 victory over Nottingham Forest, where he landed awkwardly following a first-half challenge. Despite attempting to continue, the Norwegian midfielder was forced to signal to the bench and was substituted shortly thereafter.
This marks the second time in recent weeks that Ødegaard has been sidelined with a similar issue. He previously suffered a shoulder injury during Arsenal’s win over Leeds United last month, and although scans revealed no fracture or dislocation, the problem has resurfaced.
Speaking ahead of the European clash, Arteta expressed his disappointment at losing his captain for such a crucial fixture. “I think it is the same shoulder he had last time. He wasn’t comfortable continuing,” Arteta said. “He’s back home and won’t travel to Bilbao”.
Ødegaard’s absence adds to Arsenal’s growing injury concerns, with fellow star Bukayo Saka also ruled out due to a hamstring issue. The Gunners will now look to their squad depth as they prepare to face a spirited Athletic Club side in Bilbao.
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