Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka faces an extended period on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury during Saturday’s 5-1 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed.
Saka, 23, was forced off the pitch in the 22nd minute and later seen leaving the stadium on crutches. Arteta revealed that the England international will be out for “many weeks,” missing Friday’s league match against Ipswich Town at the Emirates Stadium and several subsequent fixtures.
“It’s a significant blow for us,” Arteta said. “Bukayo has been instrumental this season, and we hope for his swift recovery before the season concludes.”
With five goals and ten assists in the league this season, Saka has been a key contributor to Arsenal’s rise to third place in the standings. His absence poses a challenge for the Gunners as they navigate crucial upcoming matches domestically and in Europe.
Saka’s injury marks a recurrence, having missed three Nations League games for England and Arsenal’s fixtures against Bournemouth and Shakhtar Donetsk in October and November due to an injury to the same leg.
“The injury is the result of a buildup of factors, including the number of games he’s played,” Arteta explained. “We’ll work closely with the medical team to ensure he returns fully fit.”
Arsenal will now look to other squad members to step up in Saka’s absence as they aim to maintain their momentum in both the Premier League and European competitions.
Reference(s):
Arsenal's Saka out for many weeks with hamstring injury, Arteta says
cgtn.com
