Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka is set to be sidelined for several weeks after suffering a hamstring injury during the team’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed.
Saka, who has been instrumental in Arsenal’s strong performance this season, was forced to leave the pitch in the 22nd minute of the match at Selhurst Park. The 23-year-old left the stadium on crutches, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming fixtures.
Arteta acknowledged that Saka will miss Friday’s Premier League clash against Ipswich Town at the Emirates Stadium, among other matches. However, he remains optimistic that the winger will return before the season concludes.
“This injury is a result of various factors, including the sheer number of games Bukayo has played,” Arteta explained. “We need to manage his workload to ensure a full recovery.”
Saka has been a standout player this season, recording five goals and ten assists in the league, and contributing significantly to Arsenal’s position at third place in the standings. His absence will be a considerable setback for the team’s ambitions.
The England international has been dealing with injury issues over the past months. In October and November, he missed three Nations League matches, Arsenal’s league defeat at Bournemouth, and their Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk due to an injury to the same leg.
As Arsenal navigates a crucial period in the season, the team will look to other players to step up in Saka’s absence. Fans and teammates alike are hopeful for his swift recovery and return to the pitch.
Saka’s injury highlights the physical demands placed on top-level footballers, emphasizing the importance of player rotation and rest in a congested fixture schedule.
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Arsenal's Saka out for many weeks with hamstring injury, Arteta says
cgtn.com
