Despite the injury woes, Arteta struck a tone of measured optimism after the match, praising his side’s adaptability and resilience.
“We know how difficult those games are going to be but we wanted to come here because we had some very difficult fixtures, playing some of the top teams, some of them away and with some big injuries as well. We had to adjust a lot of things with some players who were coming as well from big injuries and surgeries in the first few weeks of the season. So it’s been a challenge but the team has been, I think, very convincing in performances and results and it’s a good platform now to continue.”
As Arsenal look to maintain momentum both domestically and in Europe, the absence of their skipper looms large. Odegaard’s creativity, composure, and leadership have been central to Arteta’s project since the Spaniard handed him the armband.
Now, with the midfield talisman sidelined and no clear return date in sight, the Gunners face a stern test of depth, character, and belief.
For Odegaard, the coming weeks will be about patience and recovery. For Arsenal, it will be about proving that their title challenge doesn’t hinge on one man — even if that man happens to be their beating heart.