Mikel Arteta, the head coach of Arsenal, has expressed significant concern regarding winger Bukayo Saka’s health following a suspected hamstring injury sustained in the team’s commanding victory against Crystal Palace during their recent Premier League match. The incident occurred just 24 minutes into the game, where Saka, marking his milestone 250th appearance for the club, reached for his hamstring after delivering a cross, ultimately forcing him to leave the field prematurely.
In the aftermath of the match, where Arsenal showcased their attacking prowess with crucial goals from players such as Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Declan Rice, Arteta revealed his worries about Saka’s condition. “He felt something in his hamstring,” Arteta stated. “He could not continue, he had to be assessed. We are pretty worried.” The situation appears to be serious, as Saka’s ongoing injury issues throughout the season have raised apprehensions among fans and staff alike, particularly that this recent setback may indicate a recurrence of a prior hamstring injury he suffered while on international duty with England in October.
Arsenal, currently in pursuit of the Premier League title, does not need further difficulties at this crucial juncture, especially with a demanding schedule looming over the festive season and into the New Year. Over a span of just 27 days, the team is set to face eight matches across four different competitions, increasing the urgency for their star players to remain fit and in peak condition. Saka’s ability to contribute has been remarkable this season, with 22 goal involvements in just 23 appearances, underscoring the pivotal role he plays in Arteta’s attacking setup.
Despite the potential setback, Arteta remains optimistic about the team’s title aspirations. After the match against Crystal Palace, which extended Arsenal’s unbeaten streak to nine games, he acknowledged that while recent performances may have lacked luster against teams like Fulham and Everton, the win has been encouraging. Notably, this victory has brought Arsenal closer to their title rivals, with them now trailing league leaders Liverpool by just three points, while Chelsea holds an edge of one point over them in second place. Arteta conveyed his determination, stating, “We are not even halfway [through the season], so we’re going to try [to win the title], certainly,” adding that the pursuit remains “on.”
Looking ahead, Arsenal’s fixtures include a return to play against Ipswich Town soon after Christmas, followed by a New Year’s Day clash against Brentford, and a subsequent match against Brighton & Hove Albion. Arteta emphasized the significant challenges that lie ahead, stating, “We certainly want it, but we have to show it for 10 months, and the demands are incredible.” He candidly noted the strain of playing every three days for an extended period, labeling it “absolutely crazy” yet stating that they are committed to meeting the demands that the schedule presents.
In addition to worrying about Saka, who was seen leaving Selhurst Park on crutches, the team is also dealing with the absence of Raheem Sterling, who was reportedly sidelined after feeling discomfort during training on the preceding Friday. Arteta acknowledged the mounting injury issues faced by his squad, stating, “Unfortunately, today, again, we lost some players.” While these challenges are contributing to the difficulties of the title race, Arteta remains resolute in his commitment to ensure Arsenal competes at the highest level in pursuit of the coveted Premier League trophy.
Fans can keep track of the unfolding season and the drama of the title race by streaming the 2024-25 Premier League live on TNT Sports and discovery+.
