David Ornstein Shares Arsenal Injury Update on Bukayo Saka Ahead of Real Madrid Clash

Arsenal fans have been anxiously awaiting news on Bukayo Saka’s fitness ahead of their crucial Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, there is growing optimism within the Gunners’ camp that their star winger will be fit in time for the showdown.

Saka has not played for Arsenal since December 2024 after suffering a serious hamstring injury. His absence has significantly impacted Mikel Arteta’s side, with the Gunners struggling to maintain their title charge in the Premier League. With their domestic hopes fading, their focus has shifted towards European glory, making Saka’s return even more vital.

Arsenal’s last major trophy came in 2020 when they lifted the FA Cup under Arteta, and the Champions League remains their most coveted prize. Facing Real Madrid, the 14-time European champions, will be a monumental challenge, but having Saka back could tilt the odds slightly in their favor.

Arsenal Confident in Saka’s Recovery Timeline

Ornstein, writing in his Q&A for The Athletic, stated that Arsenal are hopeful Saka will be fully fit in time for the first leg against Real Madrid on April 8th. His recovery appears to be on track, aligning with initial medical projections when he underwent surgery on his hamstring.

“As John Cross was first to report, that appears to be the hope of Arsenal and Saka. It would also fit with the estimated recovery timescales when he underwent surgery. But they won’t rush him or take risks, and rightly so,” Ornstein explained.

This means Arsenal will be extra cautious with their approach, ensuring Saka only returns when fully ready. The club is aware of the risks associated with rushing players back from long-term injuries, especially when dealing with hamstring issues that can easily recur.

Saka’s Importance to Arsenal’s Attack

Despite missing all of 2025 so far, Saka remains Arsenal’s top contributor in the Premier League in terms of goals and assists. His ability to break down defenses, deliver pinpoint crosses, and score crucial goals has been sorely missed.

With Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli struggling for form and consistency, Arsenal’s attack has lacked the same dynamism in recent months. Martin Ødegaard has shouldered much of the creative burden, but without Saka’s directness and dribbling ability on the right flank, Arsenal’s attack has looked predictable at times.

Real Madrid’s Defensive Concerns

Real Madrid, on the other hand, have had their own defensive struggles this season. Injuries to key defenders, including Éder Militão and Ferland Mendy, have left them vulnerable in big matches. If Saka is fit, his pace and trickery could exploit Madrid’s defensive frailties, especially if Carlo Ancelotti is forced to deploy makeshift solutions in the backline.

With Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham leading Madrid’s attack, Arsenal will need all their attacking firepower to compete. A fully fit Saka gives them a fighting chance, providing the pace and creativity required to penetrate Madrid’s defense.

Contract Talks Looming for Saka

Beyond his injury recovery, Arsenal are also set to begin formal negotiations over a contract extension for Saka. The 23-year-old’s current deal runs until 2027, but the Gunners want to secure his long-term future, given his growing stature as one of the best wingers in Europe.

Saka’s performances have drawn interest from clubs across the continent, including Real Madrid and Manchester City. However, Arsenal remain confident he will commit his future to the club, especially if they can build a team capable of competing for major honors.

The Verdict: A Race Against Time

With just a few weeks remaining until the first leg against Real Madrid, Arsenal’s medical team will be working tirelessly to get Saka back to full fitness. His return could be the difference between another early Champions League exit or a historic run towards the final.

Arteta will likely ease Saka back into the squad gradually, potentially giving him minutes in a Premier League match before the Madrid clash. But if there’s even a slight risk of re-injury, Arsenal may choose to be cautious rather than gamble with their star player’s long-term health.

For now, Gunners fans will be hoping for positive updates in the coming weeks. If all goes well, Saka’s return could be the boost Arsenal need to take down the European giants and keep their dream of Champions League glory alive.