Arsenal Injury Update: Arteta Shares Positive News as he reveals when Bukayo Saka is expected to make his return…

Arsenal Injury Update: Arteta Shares Positive News as Bukayo Saka’s Return Timeline is Announced

Mikel Arteta has announced that Bukayo Saka is expected to be sidelined for “more than two months” following a successful hamstring surgery.

Saka, who has recorded nine goals and 13 assists in 24 appearances this season, sustained the injury during Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace last weekend and was seen leaving Selhurst Park on crutches.

The Gunners managed a 1-0 win against Ipswich without Saka on Friday, but concerns remain regarding their ability to perform without him for an extended period.

“He underwent a procedure,” Arteta stated after the match. “Everything went well, but unfortunately, he will be out for many weeks.

“I mentioned many weeks, so I believe it will be more than two months. The exact duration is uncertain.

“It will depend on how the scar tissue heals in the first week or so and the mobility involved. It’s quite challenging to predict.”

This timeline suggests that Saka could potentially return for Arsenal’s match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on March 8.

In more positive news, Arteta provided an update on Chelsea loanee Raheem Sterling, who has been absent for the last two matches due to a knee injury.

Initially expected to be out for “weeks,” Sterling’s condition appears to be improving more quickly than anticipated.

“Yes, we need to monitor his progress this week,” Arteta added. “We initially thought the knee injury would take longer to heal, but the recent developments are encouraging.

“Hopefully, this is a positive sign because we need him back.”

Arsenal’s next match is against Brentford on New Year’s Day, as they aim to continue their winning streak in the Premier League and keep pace with Liverpool at the top of the standings.

When asked about how his team performed in Saka’s absence against Ipswich, Arteta responded: “Very well. It was a different dynamic.

“We had some moments in the second half. It’s a new unit, and it will take time for the players to fully adapt.”

Arsenal has surpassed Chelsea following their victory at the Emirates, yet they remain six points adrift of Liverpool, who also have a game in hand over the teams pursuing them.

Despite this distance, Arteta expresses satisfaction with his team’s current standing, especially in light of the challenges they have faced this season.

He remarked, “Given the circumstances we’ve encountered this season, including the numerous times we’ve had to compete with only 10 players and the injuries we’ve suffered, it’s encouraging to be in our current position.

However, it is not our ultimate goal. We aim to be at the top.”