Arsenal have secured their second ever Champions League final after overcoming Atlético Madrid.
The first leg in Madrid last week ended in a 1-1 draw. On Tuesday, Bukayo Saka’s 44th minute saw Arsenal secure a 1-0 win at the Emirates and a place in the final.
Arsenal star Martin Ødegaard came off the bench in the 59th minute in place of Eberechi Eze against the La Liga side.
The Norway international has constantly struggled with injuries, limiting his game time this season. He’s had seven injuries, forcing him to miss 137 days and 25 matches for Arsenal. The setbacks also meant he hasn’t been able to represent his country since September.
The midfielder last picked up an injury in Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Sporting in April. At that time, Norway manager Ståle Solbakken confirmed he’s suffered a “small setback.” Since then, Ødegaard has made four appearances for the Premier League side.
Manager worried about Arsenal player
The 27-year-old was not present at the open training session on Monday, raising concern over his involvement against Atlético Madrid.
Prior to yesterday’s Champions League clash, TV2 state Norway manager Ståle Solbakken said Martin Ødegaard’s fitness situation is “not ideal”.
After the match, TV2 caught up with the Arsenal captain to get his reaction after his side’s latest feat and talk about his fitness.
The former Real Madrid, who has struggled with injuries, dreams of playing in the World Cup with Norway. Prior to this, he has important fixtures with Mikel Arteta’s side, who are in contention to win the title and the Champions League.
TV2 believe it may be difficult for Ødegaard to balance priorities at a time when Solbakken admitted his situation is not ideal.
However, the player has a different view on this: “We have to take it a little day by day.”
His teammate, Declan Rice, insists Arsenal are a different side with Ødegaard.
“Martin deserves it. Since he came here in 2020/21, he has taken the club to this level. He is a phenomenal player. When we have him, we are such a much better team,” Rice explained.
Arsenal’s remaining fixtures
The north London club have three more matches in the Premier League and then the Champions League final this season.
Martin Ødegaard, if fit, is likely to be involved in these fixtures and Norway can only hope he doesn’t pick up an injury.
- v West Ham [away] on May 10th
- v Burnley [home] on May 18th
- v Crystal Palace [away] on May 24th
- Champions League final on May 30th
