Arsenal’s 2-0 win over West Ham at the Emirates Stadium kept them in the title race, but the victory was overshadowed by fresh injury concerns for captain Martin Ødegaard and midfielder Declan Rice.
Ødegaard limped off late in the first half after a clash with Crysencio Summerville, leaving the stadium with his left knee in a brace. The Norwegian’s early exit marked the third consecutive game in which he has been substituted before half-time, following previous issues with a shoulder injury against Leeds and Nottingham Forest. His ongoing fitness struggles are a major worry for Arsenal, given his influence in orchestrating play and leading the team in attack.
Manager Mikel Arteta expressed his concern after the game, confirming that Ødegaard was in pain and awaiting further assessment. The injury adds to a frustrating run for the midfielder, who has been in and out of the squad since the start of the season due to various knocks. Arteta emphasised the importance of the captain’s creative role and admitted that losing him again would be a big blow to the team’s momentum.
Adding to Arsenal’s worries, Declan Rice was also forced off in the second half with a back problem, despite having earlier opened the scoring against his former club. The England international signaled to the bench that he could not continue, prompting immediate substitution. With upcoming international fixtures against Wales and Latvia, his availability is now in doubt. Arteta described Rice’s injury as unusual, given the midfielder’s durability, and said medical tests would determine the extent of the issue.
Bukayo Saka ensured Arsenal sealed the points, converting a second-half penalty on his 200th Premier League appearance. The winger highlighted the team’s determination to right past wrongs, noting that Arsenal had failed to beat West Ham at home in their previous two encounters. Saka praised the side’s defensive discipline and attacking cohesion, stressing that clean sheets remain key to their title challenge.
For West Ham, the defeat leaves them struggling near the relegation zone. New manager Nuno Espírito Santo admitted the team is still adapting to his methods, acknowledging that the upcoming international break will provide a crucial period for tactical adjustments and rebuilding confidence.
Despite the three points, Arsenal’s joy was tempered by the uncertainty surrounding Ødegaard and Rice — two of their most vital players as they face a crucial stretch of the season.
