‘Not a positive sign’ – Arteta shares update on Ødegaard and Saka injuries before Liverpool showdown

Arsenal’s flying start to the Premier League season continued in style with a commanding 5–0 victory over Leeds United at the Emirates. Yet what should have been an afternoon of celebration quickly turned into one of concern, as both Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka were forced off with injuries—casting a shadow over the team’s preparations for next weekend’s blockbuster clash against Liverpool.

The Emirates was buzzing even before kick-off as new signing Eberechi Eze was unveiled to the crowd, signaling Arsenal’s growing ambition this season. On the pitch, Mikel Arteta’s men showed no mercy to Leeds, playing with pace, precision, and flair. Goals flowed freely, reaffirming their credentials as early title contenders. But the joy was dampened by the sight of two of Arsenal’s most influential players leaving the field in discomfort.

Ødegaard, the captain and creative heartbeat of the team, was the first to raise alarm bells. After an awkward landing during a challenge, he clutched his shoulder and immediately signaled to the bench. Although he attempted to continue briefly, the pain was too much, and Arteta opted to substitute him. The Spaniard confirmed after the game that the midfielder would undergo scans to assess the extent of the damage.

Saka’s injury was perhaps even more troubling. Midway through the second half, the winger pulled up suddenly while sprinting, immediately pointing to his hamstring. Arsenal fans watched in silence as their star attacker limped off the pitch, shaking his head in frustration. Arteta’s comments post-match highlighted the seriousness of the situation: “Bukayo knows his body well. He felt something different this time compared to his previous injury. That’s why we’re worried.”

With Kai Havertz already sidelined by a knee problem, Arsenal’s midfield and attack are beginning to look stretched. Arteta admitted that the relentless demands of the Premier League make it nearly impossible to navigate a season without setbacks, but losing two key players in the same match could hardly have come at a worse time.

Initial assessments suggest Ødegaard may only be out for one to two weeks if the injury is minor, though a more serious sprain could keep him sidelined for a month. Saka’s hamstring issue, however, looks more problematic. While a mild strain could see him return within a few weeks, a Grade 3 tear could mean as many as three months on the sidelines—an absence that would significantly impact Arsenal’s campaign.

These developments are particularly concerning with Arsenal’s next fixture being away at Anfield against defending champions Liverpool. A match already billed as one of the most important in the early title race has now taken on an entirely new dimension. Arsenal’s depth and resilience will be severely tested, and Arteta may need to shuffle his pack to cope with the absences.

Liverpool themselves are not without problems. Jeremie Frimpong has been ruled out, while Conor Bradley has only just resumed training. Manager Arne Slot, who succeeded Jürgen Klopp this summer, may need to deploy unconventional solutions, with Dominik Szoboszlai or Joe Gomez potential emergency options at right-back.

Both sides, therefore, will head into this clash with defensive and attacking uncertainties, but the pressure arguably weighs heavier on Arsenal. Their momentum is undeniable—three wins from three, 11 goals scored, none conceded—but the psychological blow of losing Ødegaard and Saka could disrupt their rhythm just as their biggest test arrives.

Arteta, however, tried to strike a tone of resilience. “Injuries are part of football. We don’t want them, especially to players as important as Martin and Bukayo, but we must adapt. The group is strong, and others will have the opportunity to step up.” His words underline the belief that Arsenal’s project this season is not dependent on individuals alone, but on the collective.

The timing of these setbacks could prove decisive. A positive result at Anfield would strengthen Arsenal’s claim as serious title challengers, while a defeat could allow Manchester City and Liverpool to re-establish dominance at the top. For now, the Emirates will anxiously await medical updates on their captain and their talisman, knowing that the outcome of next weekend’s showdown may hinge on the fitness of two indispensable stars.