"He hasn’t done anything" - Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta hits back at Harry Kane's comments on Bukayo Saka and others pulling out of England squad
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has responded to criticism questioning Bukayo Saka’s injury status, following England captain Harry Kane’s comments about players withdrawing from international duty. Saka was one of the nine players who made themselves unavailable for England during the recent UEFA Nations League fixtures.
The decision sparked debate after the winger returned to Arsenal’s starting lineup and scored in a commanding 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Saturday (November 23).
Speaking after Arsenal’s victory, Arteta was firm in defending Saka, addressing doubts about the player's fitness during the international break.
He said (via EuroSport):
"Well, we can send an MRI scan; it’s very simple. That’s a communication that was very clear between the medical staff of Arsenal and the England national team. He hasn’t done anything, he was away and needed time to heal. He’s done one training session."
Kane had earlier expressed disappointment, suggesting some players may have "taken advantage" of a "tough period of the season" to avoid international duty.
Without directly referencing Kane, Arteta emphasized that Saka’s situation was genuine and properly managed by both club and country medical teams.
Saka, who had been sidelined with a muscle injury, made an impactful return at the Emirates on Saturday. He opened the scoring as Arsenal ended a four-match winless run in the Premier League.
Arteta praised his team for their energy and determination to bounce back after a challenging few weeks that had led some to question their title credentials. He added:
"I sensed a great energy in the last 48 hours. The way everybody came back, I sensed a great togetherness and desire to change the situation and what has been a different period for us with all the situations that we had to come across. The team is there straight away from the beginning. It was a flow, it was a dominance, there was an enthusiasm about it. That is what I demanded."
The result saw them reaffirm their position as title contenders, with Saka’s performance underlining his importance to the team.
How has Bukayo Saka performed for Arsenal this season?
Bukayo Saka continues to be a key player for the Gunners, delivering impressive performances in the Premier League and beyond this season.
The dynamic winger has already racked up five goals and eight assists in 16 games across competitions, showcasing his ability to both score and create. Four out of his five goals have come in the Premier League, including decisive goals against top opposition.
The 23-year-old is one of the most consistent performers in the squad. His creativity is equally vital, as he ranks among the north London outfit's top chance creators, frequently linking up with Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz in attack.
Defensively, Saka’s work rate has been outstanding, often tracking back to support the Gunners' backline during high-pressure moments.
With his form peaking, the England international remains central to Arsenal’s ambitions of challenging for silverware this season.
