Martin Odegaard was substituted before the hour mark during Arsenal's Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, raising fresh injury concerns for the Gunners captain.
Odegaard's Substitution Raises Questions
The Norwegian international has endured a difficult season plagued by form and fitness issues, making only 10 starting appearances since the turn of the year. He returned from his latest setback earlier this month, playing the full 90 minutes against Manchester City and Newcastle United before starting against Atletico on Wednesday night.
However, in a tense contest at the Metropolitano, manager Mikel Arteta opted to replace his skipper on 57 minutes with Eberechi Eze. Arteta may have been considering Saturday's Premier League clash with Fulham, a must-win game in their title pursuit, before the second leg next Tuesday. But many observers believe Odegaard is still struggling with injury.
Medical Attention and Speculation
The former Real Madrid midfielder appeared to receive treatment from Arsenal's medical staff at the end of the first half. Norway's broadcaster TV2 also speculated about a potential issue. TV2 football expert Erik Thorstvedt suggested a recent knee problem is still causing Odegaard problems.
'It is completely unnatural that he should be replaced so early,' Thorstvedt said. 'He has something that is not quite right. There is something in his left knee that is not right. It is a great shame.'
Arteta did not disclose any details behind Odegaard's withdrawal after the game.
Odegaard's Injury History
The midfielder missed three months of last season with an ankle injury and has struggled with various issues this campaign. He was briefly sidelined with a shoulder injury in September, and a knee problem kept him out for eight games from October to November. Knee issues resurfaced this year, causing him to miss a run of games in February and March.
Arsenal fans will be anxiously awaiting updates on their captain's fitness ahead of crucial matches against Fulham and the second leg against Atletico Madrid.
