Early Setback: Saka and Ødegaard Injured Ahead of Arsenal’s Anfield Test

Arsenal’s season has been rocked just two games in, as two of their most influential players—Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard—were forced off with injuries during the club’s latest Premier League outing. The double blow comes at the worst possible moment for Mikel Arteta, who now faces the prospect of taking his team to Anfield without two of his most trusted lieutenants.

Saka’s injury in particular will sting Arsenal supporters. The England international has evolved into one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers, a player capable of turning games with a burst of pace, a clever dribble, or a perfectly weighted final pass. His creativity from the right wing has become Arsenal’s most reliable attacking outlet, and his absence leaves a void that cannot easily be filled.

Ødegaard’s departure from the pitch carried an equally heavy weight. As Arsenal’s captain and creative fulcrum, the Norwegian international orchestrates play with intelligence and composure. His ability to dictate tempo, unlock defenses with incisive passes, and lead by example has been central to Arteta’s tactical setup. Losing Ødegaard is not just about missing a talented midfielder—it’s about being without the heartbeat of Arsenal’s attack.

The timing could hardly be more brutal. Arsenal’s next test comes against Liverpool at Anfield, a venue that has historically been unforgiving to visitors. The Reds, energized under Arne Slot, will relish the chance to exploit any weakness in the Arsenal lineup. Without Saka’s threat on the wing and Ødegaard’s vision in midfield, Arteta may be forced to rethink his approach entirely, perhaps leaning on more conservative tactics to withstand Liverpool’s intensity.

Yet, beyond the immediate tactical headache, the broader concern lies in the long-term implications. A disrupted start to the campaign could threaten Arsenal’s rhythm at a crucial stage. Momentum is often built in these early weeks, and the psychological impact of losing two key figures so soon could ripple through the squad. Arteta’s ability to keep spirits high and ensure belief does not waver will be critical.

Attention will now turn to the supporting cast. Can Kai Havertz shoulder more responsibility in midfield, stepping into Ødegaard’s creative role? Will Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard rise to the occasion and provide the spark usually delivered by Saka? These are the moments when squad depth is truly tested, and Arsenal will need their fringe players to prove their worth.

The injury concerns also highlight Arsenal’s dependence on their core stars. Last season, both Saka and Ødegaard featured heavily, often playing through fatigue as Arsenal chased silverware. That workload, coupled with the demands of international football, raises questions about squad rotation and the risks of overreliance. Arteta has long emphasized the need for a deep, competitive squad, but situations like this reveal how difficult it is to replace world-class talent.

Arsenal fans will anxiously await updates from the medical team, hoping that the injuries are not as severe as initially feared. Even short-term absences, however, could influence the outcome of early season clashes that may prove decisive in the title race. Every point matters, especially in a campaign expected to be fiercely competitive with Manchester City, Liverpool, and others pushing hard.

From a psychological perspective, this is also a test of leadership. Ødegaard’s presence as captain has been a calming influence in difficult moments, while Saka’s infectious energy inspires teammates and supporters alike. Without them, Arsenal must find other voices and other sources of inspiration to carry them through the storm.

One thing is certain: Arsenal’s resilience will now be under the microscope. The coming weeks could either expose weaknesses in their title ambitions or forge a stronger, more united squad capable of overcoming adversity. For Arteta, the challenge is clear—navigate Anfield without his brightest stars and ensure this early setback does not derail the season before it has truly begun.