Arsenal captain offered Cup final hope after national team boss statement

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has been given an outside chance of featuring in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City, according to comments from Norway head coach Stale Solbakken.

The attacking midfielder has been sidelined since coming off the bench during Arsenal’s 4-1 North London Derby victory over Tottenham, struggling with a persistent knee injury that initially surfaced during February’s 1-1 Premier League draw at Brentford.

Solbakken has excluded Odegaard from Norway’s upcoming friendlies against the Netherlands and Switzerland, but crucially left the door open for a potential return to Arsenal action before the international break.

“If Martin makes it into the League Cup final squad and manages to train with the team at the end of the week, we will have another conversation about how wise it is for him to be there,” Solbakken explained. “I’d rather see him build his physique and get a proper training period.”

The Norway coach’s comments suggest Odegaard’s fitness situation remains fluid heading into the weekend’s showpiece at Wembley. However, Solbakken made clear his preference would be to continue resting the 27-year-old playmaker.

Cautious approach to recovery

Arsenal have adopted a measured approach to Odegaard’s return, mindful of avoiding any setbacks with such a crucial period approaching. The captain briefly returned to action last month after missing matches against Wigan Athletic and Wolves, only to suffer another spell on the sidelines.

This disrupted campaign has seen Odegaard deal with multiple injury concerns, including separate shoulder and knee problems earlier in the season alongside his current issue.

Writing in his programme notes, Odegaard expressed his frustration at being unavailable while emphasizing his determination to return. The midfielder revealed he watched Arsenal’s recent match from the stands alongside his brother, demonstrating his commitment to supporting the team even when unable to contribute on the pitch.

Crucial timing for Arsenal

Odegaard’s potential availability would provide a significant boost for Mikel Arteta’s side as they prepare to face Manchester City in their first major final of the season. The Norwegian has been instrumental in Arsenal’s creative play when fit, making his absence particularly felt during recent matches.

The club’s medical team will likely assess Odegaard’s condition throughout the week before making a final decision on his involvement against City. With Norway’s coaching staff indicating training participation would be key to any potential inclusion, Arsenal supporters will be monitoring developments closely.

The Gunners face a City side they know well from their Premier League battles, making any boost to their squad depth potentially decisive in what promises to be a closely contested final.