Arsenal suffered an unexpected loss in the crucial English Premier League match against Chelsea. Team captain Martin Odegaard was not included in the squad for the London derby held at the Emirates Stadium.
Idman.Biz reports that the 26-year-old playmaker, who participated in training throughout the week and appeared in the last match against Tottenham, was expected to be in the starting eleven. However, the fact that his name was not on the protocol an hour before the match caused a great shock to the fans.
Mikel Arteta made a statement on the matter, stating that the Norwegian footballer's knee injury has not yet fully healed:
"Unfortunately, Martin still does not feel completely comfortable due to his knee injury. Together with the medical staff, we decided not to risk him."
It should be noted that Martin Odegaard has already missed 15 games this season due to various injuries. His absence is considered a serious blow to the "Gunners", who are fighting for the championship.