Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is making strides in his recovery from a troubling ankle injury that has kept him sidelined since September. The Norwegian playmaker, who suffered ankle ligament damage during the international break, has missed Arsenal’s last seven games, but his return to fitness offers a significant boost for Mikel Arteta’s side as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures after the upcoming November international break.
Odegaard was recently seen running on an AlterG anti-gravity treadmill, a specialized piece of equipment that helps athletes maintain their fitness while easing the stress on injured areas. This positive development indicates that the 24-year-old midfielder is getting closer to full recovery, much to the relief of Arsenal fans and management alike.
A Key Player for Arsenal
Odegaard has been an integral part of Arsenal’s resurgence under Mikel Arteta, contributing significantly with his creativity, leadership, and technical ability in midfield. Since being handed the captain’s armband, the former Real Madrid man has not only led by example on the pitch but also embodied the club’s new direction under Arteta, characterized by youth, dynamism, and tactical intelligence.
Before his injury, Odegaard’s performances were pivotal to Arsenal’s strong start to the season. His vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of games made him a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield. The Gunners have felt his absence, especially in games where breaking down stubborn defenses required the kind of guile and creativity Odegaard regularly provides.
Odegaard’s use of the AlterG anti-gravity treadmill is a promising sign in his rehabilitation process. This high-tech piece of equipment allows athletes to run while reducing the impact on their injured limbs, facilitating faster recovery without risking further damage. By taking off a percentage of the athlete’s body weight, the treadmill makes running less stressful on the joints and ligaments, providing a controlled environment for recovery.
Crucial Fixtures on the Horizon
Arsenal’s upcoming schedule is packed with crucial matches, and having Odegaard back in the fold could not come at a better time. After the November international break, the Gunners are set to face Premier League leaders Liverpool on October 27, a high-stakes clash that could have a major impact on the title race.
Liverpool has been in scintillating form this season, and Arsenal will need all their key players fit and firing to have a chance of toppling the league leaders. Odegaard’s return to the midfield would add much-needed creativity and composure, helping Arsenal control the tempo and break down Liverpool’s high press.
Arteta’s Midfield Dilemma
While Odegaard’s potential return is excellent news, Mikel Arteta will need to carefully manage the midfielder’s reintegration into the team. Rushing him back too soon could risk aggravating the injury, which could result in a longer-term absence. Arteta has already been rotating his midfield options in Odegaard’s absence, with players like Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jorginho stepping up.
However, none of these players offer the same combination of creativity, leadership, and technical prowess that Odegaard brings to the side. Arteta will be eager to have his captain back as soon as possible, but he will also be cautious about managing his recovery to avoid any setbacks.
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