Bukayo Saka Update: Arsenal Star Spotted at Emirates Without Crutches, But Gunners Face Fresh Injury Setback
Bukayo Saka is on the brink of making his much-anticipated return to the Arsenal squad. The talented winger was recently photographed back in full training at London Colney after undergoing hamstring surgery in December, marking a significant step forward in his recovery.
The Arsenal superstar looks poised to be included in the squad for the upcoming clash against Fulham on Tuesday night, with crucial matches against Everton and Real Madrid on the horizon. Saka shared his excitement on Instagram, posting a cheerful picture of himself with a thumbs-up and the caption: “Hello again.”
At just 23 years old, Saka suffered a torn hamstring during a commanding 5-1 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace on December 21. Following the injury, he underwent surgery just days later, which led to him missing an extensive 19 matches across all competitions. During his absence, Arsenal faced challenges, including being eliminated from both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, and losing ground in the Premier League title race.
The initial target for Saka’s return was to be fit for the Champions League quarter-final first leg at home against Real Madrid on April 8, and he appears to be on track to meet that goal. Manager Mikel Arteta is eager for Saka to gain some match fitness before then, with opportunities to do so against Fulham next week and in a crucial visit to Goodison Park to face Everton on April 5.
Although Saka has made impressive strides in his recovery, Arsenal is cautious about rushing him back too quickly. It is likely that he will make cameo appearances off the bench initially to assess his fitness and help him regain his rhythm on the pitch.
During the international break, Saka has increased his training intensity, working diligently while his teammates were away representing their countries. Prior to this break, Arteta shared his hopes for Saka’s progression, stating: “Hopefully with more ball at his feet than he has had. That will mean he is passing the ball and shooting and running and everything. He has done quite a lot already on the pitch working on his own.”
Even while sidelined, Saka has remained a vital presence around the team during his rehabilitation. He was seen on crutches at the Emirates supporting his teammates during matches. Recently, he joined the squad on a warm-weather training retreat in Dubai, where he continued his personalized training regimen, focusing on light gym work. Additionally, he was spotted in the tunnel at Wembley speaking with England coach Thomas Tuchel after England’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Latvia on Monday.
Saka’s recovery has benefited from much-needed rest, during which he spent time abroad with his family in late January. Arsenal are in dire need of his attacking prowess, especially after key players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus were ruled out for the season due to hamstring and knee injuries, respectively. This situation has seen midfielder Mikel Merino step in as a makeshift centre-forward.
Adding to the club’s woes, manager Mikel Arteta experienced another setback during the international break when Riccardo Calafiori had to withdraw from Italy’s squad due to a knee injury. Saka’s impact on the team cannot be overstated; despite his lengthy absence, he remains the leading contributor in goals and assists for Arsenal this season, boasting an impressive tally of nine goals and 13 assists.
When Saka was injured, Arsenal found themselves three points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, but they now trail by 13 points with just nine games remaining. Arteta had sought reinforcements during the January transfer window, with links to players like Benjamin Sesko from Red Bull Leipzig and Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa, but was unable to finalize any deals.
In a twist of fate, Arsenal could receive another significant boost as Real Madrid may be without several key players for the first leg of their Champions League tie. Stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger, and former Gunner Dani Caballos are all facing scrutiny from UEFA for allegedly making obscene gestures following their victory over Atletico Madrid in the Last-16.
- Vinicius Junior is notably in the spotlight for reportedly making six “shots” at Atletico supporters during and after the match.
- Rudiger has been accused of making a throat-slitting gesture towards Atletico fans.
- Ceballos, who previously spent two years at Arsenal, is under investigation for allegedly making an obscene gesture with a clenched fist.
- Mbappe has also been reported for a derogatory gesture involving his genitals.
As Saka continues his recovery from hamstring surgery, Arsenal fans are hopeful for his swift return to action.
