Arsenal Sweat Over Saka Injury, But Arteta Offers Hope for Return

Arsenal fans were dealt a blow with the news that star winger Bukayo Saka is expected to be sidelined for more than two months following hamstring surgery.¹

Saka, a key figure in Arsenal’s title challenge this season, sustained the injury during the team’s 5-1 win over Crystal Palace last weekend.² Despite his absence, Arsenal managed to secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Ipswich on Friday, but concerns linger regarding the team’s ability to perform consistently without him.³

Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the surgery and recovery timeline after the Ipswich match.⁴ “He had the procedure, and everything went well,” Arteta said. “Unfortunately, he will be out for several weeks. I believe it will be more than two months, but the exact timeframe is unclear. It depends on how the initial healing progresses and how his mobility improves.”

This estimated timeframe suggests Saka could potentially return in time for Arsenal’s crucial away clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford on March 8th.

However, there was some positive news for the Gunners faithful. Chelsea loanee Raheem Sterling, who missed the last two matches due to a knee injury, appears to be recovering faster than expected.

“We need to keep monitoring his progress this week,” Arteta explained regarding Sterling. “Initially, we thought his knee injury would take longer to heal, but the recent signs are positive. Hopefully, this means he’ll be back soon because we need him.”

Arsenal’s next test comes on New Year’s Day against Brentford as they look to extend their winning streak in the Premier League and maintain pressure on league leaders Liverpool.

Reflecting on the team’s performance without Saka, Arteta commented, “We did well. It was a different dynamic, and we had some good moments in the second half. It’s a new unit without him, and it will take time for the players to fully adapt.”

Despite surpassing Chelsea into second place with their win against Ipswich, Arsenal still finds themselves six points behind Liverpool, who also have a game in hand.⁵ However, Arteta expressed optimism about his team’s current position, especially considering the challenges they’ve faced with injuries throughout the season.

“Considering the circumstances we’ve had to deal with, like playing with a reduced squad at times and the injuries we’ve suffered, it’s encouraging to be where we are,” Arteta said. “But it’s not our final goal. We aim to be at the top.”