Arsenal fans can breathe a cautious sigh of relief as manager Mikel Arteta delivered a promising update on the fitness of talismanic forward Bukayo Saka. The England international, a pivotal figure in the Gunners' title charge, was substituted during the latter stages of the recent 1-0 victory over Manchester United, sparking immediate concern.
Addressing the media ahead of the midweek clash with Leeds United, Arteta moved to allay fears of a serious setback. While confirming the player was being assessed, the manager's tone was notably optimistic.
'He was limping, quite noticeably,' Arteta stated, recounting the moment Saka signalled to the bench. 'We had to take him off. He hasn't been able to participate in training so far, but we are hopeful. We will assess him again and make a decision closer to the match.'
The 21-year-old's importance to this Arsenal side cannot be overstated. As the club's top scorer and chief creator, his potential absence would be a monumental blow to their Premier League ambitions, especially with a tense and critical run-in underway.
Navigating a Packed Fixture List
Arteta emphasised the delicate balance between player welfare and the demands of a congested fixture schedule. 'We have to listen to the medical experts and the player himself,' he explained. 'It's a busy period, and we must be smart with every decision we make. The priority is always the player's long-term fitness.'
This careful management suggests that while Saka may not be risked for the Leeds fixture, the injury is not believed to be long-term. The club will be desperate to have their starboy available for the final push in the league and their European endeavours.
All eyes will now be on the club's London Colney training ground in the coming hours as the medical team works to get Saka back on the pitch. For Arsenal supporters, the wait for a definitive answer continues, but Arteta's initial comments provide a strong dose of optimism.
