Arsenal have learned when Bukayo Saka could potentially return from injury after the winger had to leave the pitch against Crystal Palace. He was forced off limping in the 24th minute of the game after falling down to the turf and requiring some treatment. Leandro Trossard came on to replace the winger as a substitute, with Saka going to the dressing room.
He was seen leaving Selhurst Park on crutches, which raised questions about how long he would be out for. After the game, which the Gunners won 5-1 on December 21, Mikel Arteta addressed the injured winger in his press conference, telling the reporters (via Standard):
“He felt something in his hamstring. He couldn’t continue. He will have to be assessed. Pretty worried about that one.”
Now, Arsenal have learned the gravity of Saka's situation, as Mikel Arteta shared in his press conference ahead of their Ipswich Town clash at the Emirates Stadium on December 27. When asked how Bukayo Saka was doing, the manager responded (via football.london):
"It’s not looking good. He’s gonna be out for many weeks... Many. I cannot be too specific because I don’t know but it will be many weeks."
He also spoke about how much of a blow it was to the Gunners:
"It’s a huge one. He’s obviously a big player for us you just have to see the impact that he has on the team. It’s going to be a really good exercise for us to think of ways to overcome another challenge because we’ve had a lot over the season."
Now, a report from Daily Mail has revealed Arsenal's worry that Bukayo Saka will spend approximately two months out on the sidelines due to his hamstring injury. He has had to endure a number of related injuries so far this season, but this setback could keep him out of contention till early March 2025.
In the meantime, the doctors at the Emirates Stadium have decided against a specific timeline for Saka's recovery and return. The 23-year-old winger has been their best attacker this season, scoring nine goals and providing 13 assists in 24 appearances across all competitions.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided some insight into Raheem Sterling's injury situation at the club. The winger was widely expected to take over from Bukayo Saka, but he endured an injury during training.
Arteta spoke about the on-loan Chelsea winger, telling the press that, like Saka, Sterling would be "out for a while" (via football.london):
"He’s gonna be out for weeks I believe. He needs further testing tomorrow to understand the extent of his injury. It’s his knee. We have to wait and see another 24 hours. Unfortunately he’s gonna be out for a while."
Raheem Sterling joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea during the summer transfer window. The 30-year-old has played 11 games this season, scoring a goal and providing two assists.