DailySun
ARSENAL’s aspirations for the title have suffered a significant blow as Bukayo Saka is expected to be sidelined until March.
The Gunners’ forward is likely to miss up to 15 MATCHES during a crucial phase of the season.
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Saka sustained a hamstring injury during the first half of Saturday’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Monday that Saka, 23, will be unavailable for “several weeks,” indicating that the winger could miss a substantial portion of the ongoing season.
Arteta remarked: “It’s not looking good. He’ll be out for several weeks.
“I cannot provide precise details as I am uncertain — but it appears to be a long absence.
“The sample size here is limited since he hasn’t faced many prior issues.
“Yet, based on his recovery patterns after matches, we can be hopeful that we might lessen that duration.”
Arsenal currently holds the third spot in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by six points, having played one match more.
The Gunners have a total of 15 fixtures in all competitions before February 25, commencing with a home match against Ipswich this Friday.
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This does not take into account the possibility of Arteta’s team, presently competing in four tournaments, progressing in the cup competitions.
Arteta is considering the transfer market only if “something remarkable” presents itself in the upcoming window to fill Saka’s role.
Arsenal faces a significant challenge as Bukayo Saka experiences ‘many weeks’ on the sidelines due to injury
He added: “My primary concern is the squad — with the resources we have available to remain competitive.
“We possess several options at our disposal. However, should an extraordinary opportunity arise, and the club is prepared to act, we will need to evaluate the situation.”
England international Saka was observed leaving Selhurst Park on crutches.
Arteta mentioned that the England star, who has netted nine goals and provided ten assists this season, was understandably upset.
The Spanish manager noted: “He is heartbroken. It’s clear he hasn’t faced such an injury previously, as he was very emotional and down. We need to support him.”
Raheem Sterling is a likely candidate to take his place on the right flank, but the Chelsea loanee recently sustained a knee injury during training.
Arteta concluded: “He’ll need several weeks off, but further tests are necessary.”
15 Matches Bukayo Saka is Anticipated to Miss
Premier League unless otherwise specified
- 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
