Mikel Arteta Discloses When Bukayo Saka Could Be Back From Injury for Arsenal

Mikel Arteta Discloses When Bukayo Saka Could Be Back From Injury for Arsenal

  • Arsenal drew 1-1 with Manchester United at Old Trafford, with Bruno Fernandes giving United the lead through a free-kick before Declan Rice equalised for Arsenal
  • Mikel Arteta has provided an update on Bukayo Saka's injury, hinting at a possible return date for the England star
  • Injury concerns have significantly impacted Arsenal's performance this season, with key players sidelined for extended periods

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Bukayo Saka has been out of action since early December, following a serious hamstring injury sustained during Arsenal’s encounter with Crystal Palace.

The injury forced an early exit from the match, and he’s now undergoing a focused recovery plan, with Arsenal’s medical team carefully tracking his progress to ensure a safe return.

Bukayo Saka suffered his injury during Arsenal’s match against Crystal Palace in early December, where he sustained a serious hamstring problem.
Arteta expressed hope that both Saka could return to action after the upcoming international break, suggesting a potential return in early April. PhotobyAlexPantling/Sebastian Widmann.
Source: Getty Images

When Saka could be back from injury

Arsenal's boss Arteta has provided an update on Saka's recovery from the hamstring injury he sustained in December.

According to Metro UK, when asked about Saka's fitness, Arteta expressed hope that Saka could return to action after the upcoming international break, suggesting a potential return in early April.

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‘After the international break, let’s see where he is.
‘Arteta said, "His progress is really good; he's willing, as we can imagine. We're positive that in a few weeks, hopefully, he'll be back."

The nature of Saka's injury

Saka underwent surgery following his injury, and Arteta noted that the procedure went well.

The Spaniard also added that the exact timeline for his return depends on how the scar tissue heals and his overall mobility during recovery.

At this stage, a return before March is unlikely, with early April being a more realistic target.

Fans react to Bukayo Saka's potential return

Fans have given contrasting views on Saka's potential return after the international break.

Mr Khalif said,

"Don’t rush the boy back, this season is gone to flames. Get the boys back and prepare for the new season."

Kenan Olia said,

"If he’s fit, no need to keep him away from the team. Despite the poor season, Arsenal still has the Champions League to play for, both for the qualification spots for next season and also the quarterfinals. We can’t change much at this point. Just finish the season well."

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Brian K said,

"Thankfully there’s Ethan now, they should be strategically managed to get the most out of them & progress without compromising their fitness/availability. Smart management will be paramount."

While Caluum Auckland wants Arsenal to forfeit their Premier League season and put all their eggs in the Champions League.

"I've said, more than once, I'd sacrifice our season at this point, just the Champions League run so that this isn't a rush job. But, and it's a big but, if he returns to any sort of good form, I suddenly feel far better about our chances in the UCL."
Saka has missed several matches since sustaining his injury, leaving a noticeable void in Arsenal’s attacking lineup as the team continues to navigate a challenging run of fixtures without one of their key players.
Bukayo Saka of Arsenal receives medical treatment after picking up an injury during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and Arsenal FC on December 21, 2024. Photo by Alex Pantling.
Source: Getty Images

Arteta speaks about missing Saka in United clash

Arteta mentioned that sometimes what is missing from his side is the cutting edge.

He explained that the execution needs to be directed to the right player, and that player must be ready to shoot.

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The 42-year-old also pointed out that how they conceded chances in certain moments was not acceptable.

Arteta acknowledged that the opposition has a lot of quality, and when they pick the right player, it typically results in a goal.

‘Sometimes that is what is missing,’ Arteta said about his side’s lack of cutting edge.
"The execution needs to be directed to the right player, and that player has to be the one to shoot," Arteta said. "The way we conceded chances at certain moments was simply not acceptable."
‘They have so much quality and they pick the right player and normally that would end in a goal.

Arteta walks out of interview after United draw.

TUKO.co.ke previously reported on how Arsenal manager Arteta abruptly ended his interview with Sky Sports following the disappointing draw against the Red Devils.

The interview took a tense turn when Arteta was questioned about his side's performance and the growing pressure on Arsenal in the title race.

Frustrated with the line of questioning, Arteta briefly responded before abruptly walking away, leaving the interviewer stunned.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Authors:
Gedion Nzyoki avatar

Gedion Nzyoki (sports editor) Gedion Nzyoki is a dedicated journalist and editor with over two years of experience in the media industry. A graduate of Multimedia University of Kenya, Gedion began his journalism career at Ngumbau TV, where he worked from January 2024 to January 2025. During his time there, he anchored sports news and hosted a weekly Saturday sports show. In January 2025, he joined TUKO.co.ke as a Sports Editor. He can be reached at gedion.nzyoki@tuko.co.ke.

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