Arsenal’s injury crisis has deepened with the latest setback, as Bukayo Saka is now expected to remain out of action for another eight weeks.
Saka’s return delayed
The 23-year-old winger has been sidelined since December due to a hamstring injury, and while initial hopes were that he would return soon, recent reports indicate that his recovery will take longer than anticipated.
This extended absence means Saka will have missed a total of 22 matches this season due to recurring fitness issues.
Attacking crisis worsens for Arteta
According to The Sun, Arsenal had been optimistic about his return in the coming weeks, particularly with the Premier League title race heating up. However, with Saka now ruled out until mid-April, the Gunners must prepare for a crucial stretch of the season without one of their most influential players.
His prolonged absence further compounds the problems in Arsenal’s attacking department, as Mikel Arteta is already dealing with multiple injuries among his key forwards.
Kai Havertz has also been ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering a hamstring injury, while Gabriel Jesus continues his recovery from an ACL injury sustained in an FA Cup clash against Manchester United. Additionally, Gabriel Martinelli is expected to be sidelined for at least a month, leaving Arteta short on attacking firepower during a pivotal phase of the campaign.
Can Arsenal cope without their star winger?
Since breaking into Arsenal’s first team in 2018, Saka has developed into one of the club’s most vital players. He has won back-to-back Arsenal Player of the Season awards and has played a key role in their recent title challenges.
Before his injury, Saka was having a standout season, contributing 9 goals and 13 assists in 24 appearances across all competitions. (Transfermarkt)
With Arsenal currently sitting second in the table, seven points behind league leaders Liverpool, they will need to find solutions in Saka’s absence if they hope to keep their title ambitions alive.
