Arsenal fans have reason to rejoice as club captain and midfield maestro Martin Ødegaard is set to make his much-anticipated return this weekend. The Norwegian star, who has been sidelined with a minor injury for the past two weeks, is now back in full training and available for selection ahead of the Gunners’ crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday.
Ødegaard’s absence has been felt in recent matches, with Arsenal’s creative spark missing in their narrow 1-1 draw against Tottenham and the hard-fought 2-1 win over Bournemouth. However, with the 25-year-old back in action, Mikel Arteta’s side will have their influential playmaker ready to pull the strings in midfield once again.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the good news in his pre-match press conference: **”Martin has been working hard with the medical team and trained well over the last few days. He’s feeling good, and we expect him to be available for the weekend.”**
Ødegaard, who has become a fan favorite since his permanent move from Real Madrid in 2021, has been instrumental in Arsenal’s rise to title contention. His vision, precise passing, and leadership on the field have made him a key figure in the club’s recent success. The Gunners currently sit second in the Premier League, just two points behind Manchester City, making Ødegaard’s return even more significant as they look to mount a serious challenge for the title.
**”I’ve been itching to get back,”** Ødegaard said in an interview with Arsenal’s media team. **”Watching the lads from the sidelines is never easy, but I’m ready to contribute again and help push us forward in what’s a massive game.”**
The return of Ødegaard adds a vital boost to Arteta’s midfield options ahead of the showdown at the Emirates. His ability to link play and provide a threat both in terms of creativity and goalscoring will be crucial as Arsenal aim to overcome Pep Guardiola’s formidable Manchester City side.
**Up Next**: Arsenal will face Manchester City this Sunday, with Ødegaard set to lead his team in what promises to be one of the biggest fixtures of the season.
