Arsenal loses their captain midfielder ahead of the big clash with Man City

21/09/2025 19:40:00 pandatv

Ahead of the key encounter with Manchester City at Emirates, captain Martin Odegaard, unable to participate because of a shoulder injury, made significant remarks to encourage the Arsenal squad

The Norwegian midfielder confirmed that he has been working hard every day to return in time for the game, despite his shoulder not being fully healed. Odegaard revealed that it is the same injury he sustained during the match against Leeds United, the Arsenal captain had recovered but unfortunately the injury recurred just two weeks later— something he had never experienced throughout his 11 years of professional football.

Martin Odegaard before the game against Nottingham Forest — Martin Odegaard is unable to play in the big match against Man City due to a shoulder injury (Photo: Club)

“My shoulder is very painful but I am doing rehabilitation every day; I hoped to be fit enough to play today,” Odegaard wrote. He also expressed regret about having to leave the field in the previous match, as he was eager to return to play at home after the international break. Nevertheless, Odegaard praised his teammates for a solid performance that denied Nottingham Forest any clear chances in their victory.

In particular, the “Gunners” captain was excited to reunite with Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi, former teammates from Real Sociedad, in Arsenal’s midfield. According to Odegaard, this familiarity helps him coordinate better and build a strong connection, even though Zubimendi has just joined Emirates. He also emphasized that Arsenal’s current strength lies in having many players who have played together at club or international level, creating immediate cohesion.

547271695_1389144176553185_713490131026028255_n — Arsenal’s midfield tonight will heavily rely on the brilliance of Zubimendi and Merino (Photo: GOAL)

Odegaard mentioned that a recent team photo made him realize the quality and depth of Arsenal now is different from before. “This is the most talented group of players in several years. Every training session is more competitive, and everyone shares the goal of winning trophies,” he wrote.

In conclusion, Odegaard affirmed that the entire Arsenal team will enter the match against Man City with confidence and determination to replicate last season’s victory. He believes that to overcome Pep Guardiola’s side, the team must maintain high concentration throughout the 90 minutes and adapt tactically as needed.