Arteta is extremely worried as one of Arsenal's best players delivers bad news

Arsenal won 2-0 against West Ham, yet manager Arteta is anxious because Odegaard exited the field wearing a knee brace, and Declan Rice experienced back problems, posing a risk to the "Gunners" lineup.

The 2-0 victory over West Ham United in the Premier League’s eighth round secured vital three points for Arsenal, but the joy for Mikel Arteta’s team was overshadowed. Two key players, Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice, both sustained injuries, causing the Spanish coach considerable concern.

Arteta commented during the post-match press conference: “He’s not feeling well. I just spoke with him, and Odegaard’s feedback was not positive. He has to wear a knee brace, and we need to wait for the medical team's assessment. It’s really unfortunate; since the start of the season, Odegaard has suffered various injuries: twice with his shoulder, and now his knee. Hopefully, this time it’s not too serious.”

Captain Odegaard had to leave the field during the first half with a fixed knee brace. Reports indicate he was injured after a knee-to-knee clash with a West Ham player and immediately showed he couldn’t continue playing. This marks the third consecutive Premier League match where the Norwegian midfielder was forced off in the first half.

A long-term absence of Odegaard, if it happens, would be a massive blow to Arsenal. The 25-year-old midfielder is the core of their play, bringing creativity and attacking rhythm to the "Gunners". Arteta admitted: “We will have to find a replacement, but no one can truly replicate what Odegaard brings to the team.”

Meanwhile, Declan Rice, who scored the opening goal against West Ham, also worried fans by leaving the pitch in the 79th minute. The English midfielder signaled for a substitution after lying down due to back pain. Arteta stated: “This is unusual for Declan, as he almost always plays full matches. But this time, Rice was hurt and couldn’t continue. We will have to conduct thorough checks to determine the severity.”

Rice has been Arsenal’s most frequent starter this season and plays an irreplaceable role in midfield. If both Odegaard and Rice are absent, the "Gunners" will face a very tough challenge during a congested fixture schedule.

The win over West Ham helps Arsenal stay in the race for the Premier League top spot and boosts confidence for young players like Bukayo Saka, who scored the final goal to make it 2-0. However, the two consecutive injuries cast a shadow over the victory.

Arsenal won the match, but Arteta will likely lose sleep in the coming days awaiting medical results for his two biggest stars.