ARSENAL’S ambitions for the title have hit a significant hurdle as Bukayo Saka is expected to be sidelined until March.
The Gunners winger is likely to miss up to 15 GAMES during this crucial phase of the season.
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Saka sustained a hamstring injury in the first half of Saturday’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
Manager Mikel Arteta revealed on Monday that Saka, 23, will be unavailable for “several weeks,” indicating that the winger may miss a substantial portion of the ongoing season.
Arteta expressed: “It’s not looking promising. He’ll be out for several weeks.
“I can’t provide specific details at this time — but it’s expected to be an extended absence.
“Since he hasn’t had many prior incidents, the sample size is small.
“However, based on historical recovery patterns post-games, we are hopeful that we can shorten that timeline.”
Arsenal currently holds third place in the Premier League, trailing league leaders Liverpool by six points, having played one match more.
The Gunners are set to play 15 matches across all competitions before February 25, with their next match being at home against Ipswich this Friday.
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This does not consider the potential for Arteta’s team, which is currently competing in four tournaments, to progress further in the cup competitions.
Arteta intends to only look into the transfer market if “something extraordinary” becomes available in the upcoming window to fill Saka’s shoes.
A significant blow for Arsenal as Bukayo Saka faces a prolonged absence due to injury
He added: “My main priority is the squad — ensuring we maintain our competitiveness with the resources we have.
“We have numerous options available. Nevertheless, if a remarkable opportunity presents itself, and the club is prepared, we will evaluate the situation.”
England international Saka was spotted leaving Selhurst Park on crutches.
Arteta noted that the England star, who has netted nine goals and provided ten assists this season, was visibly distressed.
The Spaniard remarked: “He is devastated. It’s clear he has never faced such an injury before, as he was noticeably emotional and down. We need to provide support.”
Raheem Sterling is a possible candidate to fill in for him on the right flank, but the Chelsea loanee has been dealing with a knee injury during training.
Arteta concluded: “He will be out for several weeks, but we will require more tests.”
15 Matches Bukayo Saka is Expected to Miss
Premier League unless stated
- Ipswich (H) – December 27
- Brentford (A) – January 1
- Brighton (A) – January 4
- Newcastle (H) – January 7 (Carabao Cup)
- Man Utd (H) – January 12 (FA Cup)
- Tottenham (H) – January 15
- Aston Villa (H) – January 18
- Dinamo Zagreb (H) – January 22 (Champions League)
- Wolves (A) – January 25
- Girona (A) – January 29 (Champions League)
- Man City (H) – February 1
- Newcastle (A) – February 5 (Carabao Cup)
- Leicester (A) – February 15
- West Ham (H) – February 22
- Nottingham Forest (A) – February 25
