Odegaard Set for North London Derby Return Against Spurs

Martin Odegaard injury news is front and center as Arsenal prepares for a pivotal north London derby clash with Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium. After missing seven crucial matches due to a troublesome knee injury, the Gunners’ captain is now on the verge of making a highly anticipated comeback that could shape the trajectory of Arsenal’s 2025-26 season.

Martin Odegaard Injury News: Captain Eyes Derby Comeback

Arsenal’s midfield maestro has endured a challenging campaign, sitting out the majority of recent fixtures and watching his team navigate a difficult run of form. Concerns were high that Odegaard would be absent from yet another high-stakes encounter against arch-rivals Spurs, but recent reports indicate that the Norwegian international has made remarkable progress in his recovery.

According to sources close to the club, Odegaard could feature for only the eighth time this season and make his seventh Premier League appearance as Arsenal looks to exploit home advantage. Manager Mikel Arteta will be hoping his captain’s creativity and leadership can provide the spark Arsenal needs, especially with several other key players sidelined.

Arsenal’s Ongoing Injury Concerns

While the Martin Odegaard injury news is promising, Arsenal continues to grapple with a depleted squad. Swedish forward Viktor Gyokeres remains unavailable following a hamstring injury sustained against Burnley. Versatile attacker Noni Madueke and midfielder Kai Havertz are also still on the treatment table, further limiting Arteta’s attacking options.

Brazilian center-back Gabriel Magalhaes faces at least a month out after a recent setback while on international duty. There is a glimmer of hope, however, as Gabriel Jesus has rejoined training following his own knee ligament struggles and could play a role in the coming weeks.

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Odegaard Celebrates Norway’s World Cup Qualification

Despite his recent injury woes, Odegaard’s spirits were lifted during the international break as he witnessed Norway secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup—their first since 1998. The Arsenal captain joined his national teammates in raucous celebrations after a 4-1 win over Estonia, marking a significant milestone for Norwegian football.

Odegaard took to social media to express his pride and gratitude, writing: “We’ve dreamed of moments like this since we were children. We have failed, but we never gave up. This group has stood together through the toughest times, and that makes this moment even sweeter. Proud to represent Norway in the World Cup—dreams can come true if you believe and work hard.”

Tottenham Team News: Kolo Muani Ready for Derby Battle

On the Tottenham side, manager Thomas Frank faces his own selection headaches ahead of the derby. French forward Randal Kolo Muani, who suffered a jaw injury in a dramatic 2-2 draw with Manchester United, has been training in a protective mask and could be cleared to play. This evokes memories of Harry Kane’s iconic mask-wearing appearance in a previous north London derby.

Nevertheless, Spurs will be without key players such as James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Dominic Solanke due to long-term injuries. Mohammed Kudus remains a doubt after missing national team duty, and there are concerns over Pape Matar Sarr following a knock with Senegal.

Premier League Stakes: Arsenal Holds the Advantage

With Arsenal boasting a four-point lead at the top of the Premier League after eleven games, this north London derby takes on extra significance. Both sides are desperate for points, but the potential return of Martin Odegaard could prove decisive for the Gunners as they strive to maintain their title push.

Opinion: Odegaard’s Return Is Arsenal’s Timely Boost

Odegaard’s leadership and technical brilliance have often been the difference for Arsenal in big matches. His impending return could inject much-needed creativity and composure into the Gunners’ midfield. Given the number of injuries haunting both sides, having their captain back might just tilt the odds in Arsenal’s favor as they aim to solidify their place at the top of the league.