Martin Odegaard has been included in Norway’s squad for upcoming matches despite an injury scare during Arsenal’s game against Leeds. The inclusion eases fears ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool. Erling Haaland and Oscar Bobb are also in the squad. Norway will play Finland in a friendly and Moldova in a World Cup qualifier. They lead Group I and aim to reach their first World Cup since 1998. Arsenal fans are hoping Odegaard returns fit for the Liverpool game.
Arsenal fans breathed a collective sigh of relief as Martin Odegaard, their captain and midfield maestro, was named in the Norway squad for their upcoming international fixtures. This news comes despite the unsettling sight of him leaving the pitch injured during Arsenal's emphatic 5-0 victory over Leeds United on Saturday. The Gunners faithful will be hoping Odegaard’s inclusion signifies that the injury isn't as serious as initially feared, especially with a crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool looming at Anfield on Sunday.
The incident occurred in the first half of the match against Leeds, with Odegaard appearing to sustain a knock to his right shoulder. The discomfort was evident, leading to his substitution in the 38th minute. While the extent of the injury remained unclear immediately after the game, his prompt inclusion in the national team squad suggests a positive prognosis. However, Arsenal's medical staff will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on his condition during the international break.
Norway's squad announcement also featured other prominent names, including Manchester City's prolific striker Erling Haaland. Haaland's goal-scoring exploits have made him one of the most feared attackers in world football, and his presence will undoubtedly bolster Norway's attacking prowess. Alongside Haaland, City's young talent Oscar Bobb has also been called up. Atletico Madrid's Alexander Sorloth completes the quartet of high-profile players selected for the national team.
Norway's upcoming schedule includes a friendly match against Finland on September 4th, providing an opportunity for the team to fine-tune their tactics and combinations. Following the friendly, they will face Moldova in a crucial World Cup qualifier five days later. These matches hold significant importance for Norway's World Cup aspirations.
Currently, Norway sits atop Group I in the World Cup qualifying campaign, having secured victories in all four of their matches. Their dominant form has placed them in a commanding position, six points ahead of second-placed Israel, who have played one game fewer. Norway's ambition is to qualify for their fourth World Cup appearance, a feat they haven't achieved since 1998. The nation is eager to return to the world's biggest stage and showcase their talent on a global platform.
The inclusion of Odegaard in the Norway squad, while providing some reassurance, also introduces a degree of uncertainty for Arsenal. Manager Mikel Arteta will be hoping that Odegaard returns from international duty fully fit and ready to lead the team against Liverpool. The match at Anfield is a pivotal one for Arsenal, and they will need all their key players available if they are to secure a positive result.
The Gunners' recent form has been encouraging, but they face a stern test against a Liverpool side that is always formidable on their home turf. Odegaard's creativity and leadership in midfield will be crucial if Arsenal are to unlock the Liverpool defense and create scoring opportunities. His ability to link up with the forward players and dictate the tempo of the game makes him a vital cog in Arsenal's attacking machine.
Arsenal fans will be keeping their fingers crossed that Odegaard avoids any further setbacks during the international break and returns to London Colney in peak condition. His presence in the team is invaluable, and his fitness will be paramount as Arsenal navigates a crucial run of fixtures in the Premier League and other competitions. The Gunners are aiming to build on their positive start to the season and challenge for major honors, and Odegaard's contribution will be central to their success.
Here's the Norway squad announcement:
Her er Norges tropp til kampene mot Finland og Moldova pic.twitter.com/DODyaGdfg3
— Fotballandslaget (@nff_landslag) August 26, 2025