Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka faces several weeks on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury during the 5-1 Premier League win over Crystal Palace, manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed.
The 23-year-old was forced off in the 22nd minute of Saturday’s match and later left the stadium on crutches. Arteta is hopeful Saka will return before the end of the season but admitted the situation is concerning.
“It’s not looking good. He’s going to be out for many weeks,” Arteta told reporters. “It could have been much worse—something that could take you out for a year.”
Saka’s absence adds to Arsenal’s injury woes, with Raheem Sterling also ruled out for several weeks with a knee problem. The injuries leave Arteta considering alternative options, including Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz, and Ethan Nwaneri.
Saka has been instrumental for Arsenal this season, contributing five goals and 10 assists in the league, helping the Gunners to third place in the table. However, this is not the first setback for the England international. He missed matches in October and November with issues affecting the same leg.
Arteta suggested Saka’s injury is the result of accumulated fatigue, highlighting the heavy workload on key players like Saka and Declan Rice.
“They’ve played over 130 games in two seasons. If it continues, it’s probably unsustainable,” Arteta said. “We need to find ways to turn them into physical monsters who can cope with anything.”
The Arsenal manager hinted at potential January transfer activity to address the squad’s depth but emphasised his focus remains on maximising the potential of the current squad.
Saka will miss Friday’s home game against Ipswich Town, with Arsenal hoping to maintain momentum despite the mounting challenges.
