Impact Analysis: How Saka’s Injury Affects Arsenal’s Season Prospects
Arsenal’s winger Bukayo Saka has been ruled out for several weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained during the team’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on December 21, 2024.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the severity of the injury, stating, “It’s not looking good. He’s going to be out for many weeks.”
Saka’s absence is a significant setback for Arsenal, as he has been instrumental this season, contributing five goals and ten assists.
In addition to Saka, Arsenal is dealing with other injury concerns. Raheem Sterling, who could have been a potential replacement on the right wing, is also sidelined with a knee injury sustained in training.
Arteta is exploring alternative options within the squad to fill the void left by Saka. Potential candidates include Gabriel Martinelli, Ethan Nwaneri, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard. Notably, Arteta is considering deploying Havertz in a new role on the right wing to adapt to the current situation.
The team is also contending with injuries to other key players, including Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Oleksandr Zinchenko. Arteta has indicated that the club may look to the January transfer window to bolster the squad if necessary.
Saka’s injury is his third hamstring issue this season, raising concerns about his fitness management. The medical team is conducting further assessments to determine the exact recovery timeline.
If the rehabilitation period extends to six weeks, Saka could miss up to ten matches, including crucial fixtures against Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.