MIKEL ARTETA REVEALS BUKAYO SAKA RETURN DATE AND IT’S NOT GOOD NEWS

 

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on Bukayo Saka’s injury, and it is not good news for the star forward



Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka will be sidelined for “many weeks” after undergoing surgery on a hamstring injury sustained in last weekend’s 5-1 win over Crystal Palace.

Saka, a key figure in Arsenal’s attack, was forced off the pitch just 25 minutes into the match at Selhurst Park and left the stadium on crutches. Initial scans raised concerns of a detached hamstring, and further specialist consultations confirmed the need for surgery.

Speaking after Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town on Friday, Arteta shared updates on Saka’s recovery: “He had a procedure; everything went well. But unfortunately, he will be out for many, many weeks, probably more than two months. It now depends on how the scar tissue starts to heal and the mobility of that area.”

Without Bukayo Saka, Arsenal relied on Kai Havertz’s first-half goal to secure a vital three points and move up to second in the Premier League standings. The decisive moment came in the 23rd minute when Leandro Trossard delivered a pinpoint cross from the left, allowing Havertz to finish from close range for his seventh league goal of the campaign

The Gunners dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances, with Gabriel Martinelli stepping into Saka’s position on the right wing. Martinelli played a crucial role in the build-up to Havertz’s goal but found himself heavily marked throughout the game.

Arteta acknowledged the limitations of his squad depth, noting that Arsenal started the season with “one of the thinnest squads in the Premier League.” Injuries to Raheem Sterling, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu have compounded the team’s challenges, forcing Arteta to name a bench featuring primarily defensive players, with youngster Ethan Nwaneri as the sole attacking option

Despite Ipswich’s spirited second-half effort, Arsenal’s defence remained solid, with the visitors failing to register a meaningful threat on goal. Arteta praised his team’s control and composure, stating: “It’s important to win these tight games when you’re not at your best. The squad is stretched, but we must keep finding solutions.”

The victory takes Arsenal above Nottingham Forest and Chelsea, narrowing the gap to league leaders Liverpool to six points. This marks the third consecutive season in which Arsenal have been in contention for the Premier League crown, and Arteta remains determined to navigate the obstacles ahead. 

“We’ll look internally for solutions rather than relying on January signings,” he added, signaling his faith in the current squad.