Bukayo Saka is facing a potential injury setback that could significantly impact Arsenal during a crucial period of their Premier League campaign.
The 23-year-old winger sustained a hamstring injury in the Gunners’ emphatic 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday evening. Concerns have escalated as Saka, who had previously experienced issues in the same area while on international duty with England, will undergo a scan to determine the extent of the damage.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his concern, admitting he was ‘pretty worried’ about the situation, with further updates expected when he speaks to the media today (Monday). The severity of Saka’s injury remains uncertain, but the sight of him leaving Selhurst Park on crutches after being assisted off the pitch in the first half has only heightened worries that it could be more than just a minor strain.
Even a small tear in the hamstring could sideline Saka for up to six weeks, which would be a major blow to Arsenal’s ambitions at a critical juncture. Arsenal’s schedule is packed with important fixtures, including a match against Ipswich on December 27 and a New Year’s Day clash at Brentford.
Additionally, they are set to compete in a Carabao Cup semi-final in January, an FA Cup third-round tie with Manchester United, and two remaining Champions League matches. The team’s performance noticeably suffered during a previous absence of captain Martin Odegaard, and Saka’s contribution is vital, having notched five goals and ten assists in the Premier League this season.
Arteta has shared that Raheem Sterling was absent from the squad in the victory at Selhurst Park due to a training injury, with further assessments pending. The Arsenal boss is hopeful it’s a minor issue and that Sterling won’t be sidelined for long, potentially stepping in for Saka if needed.
