Mikel Arteta has delivered a sobering update that will send a wave of anxiety through the Arsenal fanbase, confirming a major injury doubt for superstar winger Bukayo Saka ahead of the club's colossal Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich.
The Gunners' talisman was forced off during a punishing 2-0 Premier League defeat to Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium, a result that severely dented their title ambitions. Saka was seen clutching his leg and appeared to be in significant discomfort before his second-half substitution.
Arteta's Concerning Update
Addressing the media in his post-match press conference, a visibly frustrated Arteta confirmed the worst fears of supporters. "He was not available to continue," the manager stated bluntly. When pressed on the severity of the issue and Saka's chances of featuring against the German giants, Arteta offered little hope, replying tersely, "It's a possibility. He couldn't continue, so it's a possibility."
Ødegaard Adds to Arsenal's Worries
In a double injury blow for the North London club, captain Martin Ødegaard was also withdrawn late in the game. Arteta moved to clarify that his skipper's issue was one of fatigue, a consequence of his immense work rate, rather than a specific muscular injury.
"It was fatigue," Arteta explained. "Martin has been carrying a little issue and has done incredibly well. He was cramping, and that's why we decided to take him off." Despite this reassurance, Ødegaard's physical state remains a point of concern with a hectic fixture schedule ahead.
Champions League Dreams Hang in the Balance
The potential absence of Saka represents a catastrophic setback for Arsenal's European ambitions. The 22-year-old England international is the team's chief creative force and top scorer, with his direct running and goal threat being fundamental to Arteta's system.
Facing a Bayern Munich side featuring the prolific Harry Kane without their main attacking weapon is a daunting prospect. The club's medical staff will now work around the clock in a desperate race against time to get Saka fit for the first leg at the Emirates on Tuesday night.
This injury news caps a devastating day for Arsenal, who saw their grip on the Premier League summit slip away following defeats for both them and Liverpool, handing the initiative to Manchester City in a thrilling three-way title race.
