Mikel Arteta confirms long-term absence for Bukayo Saka after hamstring injury

Mikel Arteta confirms long-term absence for Bukayo Saka after hamstring injury

New Delhi: Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka will be out for several weeks after suffering a hamstring injury. The 23-year-old was forced off during Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 win against Crystal Palace. He left the pitch visibly in pain and was later seen on crutches, worrying fans and teammates alike.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the news, saying, “It’s not looking good. He’s going to miss many weeks.” Arteta expressed his disappointment but noted that the team must adapt quickly to the absence of one of their key players.

Saka has been in excellent form this season, scoring nine goals and delivering 13 assists in just 24 appearances across all competitions.

The update Bukayo Saka owners didn’t want to see 🤕

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that the Arsenal midfielder will miss “many weeks” with a hamstring injury 🚨#FPL pic.twitter.com/xRB0MD9Q9W

— Fantasy Premier League (@OfficialFPL) December 23, 2024

This injury adds to Arsenal’s injury woes, as they have already dealt with the absence of captain Martin Odegaard earlier this season. Arteta admitted that the team would explore ideas to fill the void left by Saka’s absence.

He also highlighted the intense schedule as a possible factor in Saka’s injury, mentioning that players like Declan Rice and Saka have played over 130 games in the past three seasons.

Saka, who has made 250 appearances for Arsenal since his debut in 2018, was reportedly emotional after learning the extent of his injury. His recovery will be closely monitored as the Gunners prepare for a crucial part of their campaign. Arsenal next face Ipswich at the Emirates Stadium on 27 December.

Adding to the challenges, Arteta confirmed that Raheem Sterling is also sidelined with a knee injury. “He is going to be out for weeks. More tests are needed,” Arteta shared.

Fans will now wait to see how Arsenal adjust their tactics to cope without Saka and Sterling in the coming weeks.

 Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka will miss weeks with a hamstring injury, leaving Arteta planning tactical adjustments during a busy season.  Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today