Mikel Arteta has urged Arsenal to show a ‘different face’ in the absence of injured captain Martin Odegaard.
The midfielder sustained an ankle injury while representing Norway during the international break and is facing an extended spell on the sidelines.
Odegaard has emerged as one of the most influential players in Arteta’s squad in recent campaigns and was named as Arsenal captain in 2022.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Atalanta in their Champions League opener on Thursday evening, Arteta admitted Odegaard’s absence is a big blow but said he is confident the 25-year-old’s teammates can fill the void.
“Yes (I am confident we can cope without Odegaard) but we have to show that. He’s our captain – he’s one of our biggest players. He’s been one of the most consistent players in the last two or three seasons.
“Our identity is very related to his way of playing and his way of behaving. We’re going to have to deal with [his absence] and that’s a great test for the team as well – how capable we are to show maybe a different face. The fact [is] we have other players and other options that can be very effective.”
Asked for an update on Odegaard’s injury, Arteta said he was unable to put a timeframe on a potential return.
Arteta gives update on Odegaard injury
“After everything was scanned, they showed that there was some damage, especially in one of the ligaments in the ankle so we’re going to miss him. I don’t want to [put a timeframe on it] because I am not a doctor but it is something quite significant so we’re going to lose him for a while – hopefully not months but let’s see.”
Arsenal will face Atalanta on Thursday evening as part of the Champions League’s new-look format. The clash comes just days before the Gunners travel to face Manchester City in the Premier League, though Arteta is confident his team will not be at a disadvantage with the reduced recovery.
“Hopefully not. We have so much energy from what happened on Sunday, it was great. We have recovered a few players which is very important for us as well, and we’re playing in a competition that we absolutely love, so we’re looking at the positives.”
