Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that winger Bukayo Saka will be sidelined for “many weeks” due to a hamstring injury sustained during Saturday’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
The 23-year-old England international, who has contributed nine goals and 13 assists in 24 matches across all competitions this season, was forced off the pitch and later seen leaving Selhurst Park on crutches.
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“It’s not looking good,” said Arteta. “He’s going to be out for many weeks.
“It is what it is. He’s injured, we cannot change it. We’re going to use this time now to help him.”
Arteta is already exploring solutions to compensate for Saka’s absence and pointed to the team’s previous experience managing without captain Martin Ødegaard, who was sidelined earlier this season.
When asked if Saka had torn his hamstring, Arteta confirmed: “Yes. There are probably ways to prevent this kind of injury, and we’re analysing all the factors to see what we can do differently.”
Arteta described Saka as “gutted” and “very emotional” after learning the extent of the injury. He also acknowledged the toll of a packed schedule, noting that players like Saka and Declan Rice have played over 130 matches in the past three seasons.
In another setback, Arteta revealed that forward Raheem Sterling will also be unavailable for several weeks after suffering a knee injury. “He needs further tests tomorrow,” the manager added.
Arsenal’s next league fixture is against Ipswich Town at the Emirates Stadium on 27 December, with kick-off scheduled for 20:15 GMT.
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