Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that star winger Bukayo Saka is "ready to go" for the Gunners' crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City this weekend, marking his return after a three-month absence due to a hamstring injury. The 23-year-old England international, who last featured in Arsenal's 5-1 demolition of Crystal Palace on December 21, 2024, has been sidelined for 14 matches across all competitions, during which Arsenal maintained their title challenge despite his absence .
Saka's return comes at a pivotal moment for the North London club, who trail league leaders Liverpool by just two points with eight games remaining. His rehabilitation included specialized training at Arsenal's London Colney base and a brief stint in Dubai to accelerate recovery, with medical staff cautiously managing his workload to avoid setbacks. Arteta emphasized the importance of Saka's reintegration, stating, "Bukayo is our difference-maker. His creativity and goal threat add a dimension we've missed," referencing the player's nine goals and seven assists this season before his injury .
The timing of Saka's return is particularly strategic, as Arsenal face a gauntlet of fixtures against City, Chelsea, and Tottenham in April. His availability could prove decisive in a title race where goal difference may ultimately separate the contenders. Notably, Arsenal's win rate dropped from 78% with Saka to 65% without him, underscoring his influence .
Fans celebrated the news on social media, with #SakaBack trending globally. Meanwhile, England manager Gareth Southgate will monitor Saka's fitness closely ahead of June's UEFA Nations League finals, where the winger is expected to spearhead the Three Lions' attack .
Key Context:
- Saka’s injury occurred during a sprint in the Palace match, later diagnosed as a Grade 2 tear.
- Arsenal’s medical team utilized cryotherapy and neuromuscular electrical stimulation during his rehab.
- His 2024/25 stats before injury: 9 goals, 7 assists in 21 appearances .
