Paris Saint-Germain are expected to be missing three players for their Matchday 2 clash in the UEFA Champions League against Arsenal. However, the Gunners will also be without a crucial player for this game.
Norway’s team doctor had initially estimated that Martin Ødegaard would require at least three weeks to recover from an ankle injury, casting doubt on his availability for the match. This week, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that they can’t rely on the Norwegian player for this matchup.
Ødegaard used his captain’s notes in the matchday program to offer an update on his recovery.
“I think it was unfortunate to get the injury in the way that I did, but also it could have been worse,” Ødegaard wrote. “It was not a nice twist, and when it happened I felt it could be serious.
“I’ve injured my ankle before and the pain felt a bit different this time. That’s what scared me, but from what happened it could have been worse, so in that sense I got away with it a bit.
“Like any player, the first thing I asked the medical team was how long I would be out for, but it’s a bit tricky to say at the moment. In the early stages, it’s crucial to get a proper rest and to make sure everything heals well. After that it’s about getting stronger and building it up again.”
PSG will be without a couple of players as L’Equipe reports that Gianluigi Donnarumma, Marco Asensio, and Désiré Doué are doubtful for the upcoming match against Arsenal, which has raised some concerns for the team.
On a different note, Vitinha has been participating in individual training. While his condition isn’t a significant worry, his fitness level remains uncertain as the Champions League draws near.