Arsenal star Bukayo Saka faces ‘many weeks’ on the sidelines after suffering a torn hamstring during his side’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the severity of the injury to the England international, who has been instrumental for the Gunners this season with five goals and 10 assists in the league.
The injury represents a significant setback for Arsenal, with their key winger now set for an extended period of recovery.
The incident occurred just 25 minutes into the match at Selhurst Park, when Saka suddenly pulled up holding his right hamstring and fell to the ground.
Bukayo Saka will be out for several weeks
REUTERS
The 22-year-old was unable to continue and had to be replaced by Leandro Trossard.
Saka was seen struggling to walk as he left the pitch, requiring assistance from the Arsenal staff.
The winger’s condition appeared serious as he was later spotted departing south London on crutches, unable to move without support.
Speaking in Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s match against Ipswich, Arteta painted a grim picture of Saka’s injury situation.
“It’s not looking good. He’s going to be out for many weeks,” the Arsenal manager confirmed.
Mikel Arteta will have to rely on other players to step up
Reuters
Arteta acknowledged the significant impact of losing his star player, adding: “It’s a huge blow, but it’s going to be a big exercise for us to overcome another challenge.”
The loss of Saka comes as a particular setback given his influential role in Arsenal’s campaign, with the winger having been a key creative force this season.
The Gunners were able to cope without Saka against Palace as they scored five in a thumping victory at Selhurst Park.
Gabriel Jesus scored twice with Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli and Declan Rice getting on the scoresheet.
The return to action on December 27 at home to Ipswich Town in their final fixture of 2024.
The win over Palace also helped Arsenal close the gap to Chelsea, who were held to a 0-0 draw with Everton at the weekend.
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Bukayo Saka has been a key player for Arsenal this seasonPA
The fixtures come thick and fast for Arsenal in the New Year with a trip away to Brentford on January 1 followed by a visit to Brighton on Saturday.
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In total, Arsenal will play a whopping nine matches in January including a crucial Champions League tie against Dinamo Zagreb.