Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka has undergone surgery on his hamstring injury, marking a significant development from earlier reports.
The England international, who sustained the injury during Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace last week, is now set to be sidelined for “many, many weeks”, adding “more than two months”.
This news represents a dramatic shift from initial assessments, which suggested surgery would not be required for the 23-year-old winger.
The injury comes as a major blow to Arsenal’s title hopes, with Saka having contributed nine goals and 13 assists this season.
Bukayo Saka is facing ‘many weeks’ on the sidelines
Reuters
Saka initially pulled up during Saturday’s match at Selhurst Park after delivering a cross just over 20 minutes into the game.
The Arsenal forward immediately signalled to the bench before falling to the ground in visible discomfort.
Medical staff assisted him off the pitch, and he was later seen leaving the stadium on crutches.
Such was Arsenal’s concern about the injury that Saka was sent for a scan on Saturday night itself, rather than the usual next-day assessment.
Initial fears at the club centred around the possibility that the hamstring muscle might have become detached from the bone, prompting the immediate medical evaluation.
Speaking in his press conference, Arteta was direct about the severity of Saka’s injury.
“It’s not looking good,” the Spaniard said. “He’s going to be out for many weeks.”
The Arsenal manager added: “I cannot be too specific because I don’t know, but it will be many weeks.”
Mikel Arteta provided an update on Bukayo Saka’s fitness
Reuters
Arteta acknowledged the significant impact of losing his star player.
“Obviously he’s a big player for us. You just have to see the impact that he has on the team,” he said.
He remained resolute, adding: “It’s going to be a really good exercise for all of us to think about ways to overcome another challenge, because we’ve already had a lot in the season.”
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Bukayo Saka’s injury gives Arsenal a major problem
Reuters
Reports from Italy suggest Arsenal could move for AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze as cover for the injured Saka.
The Gunners are reportedly considering a potential swap deal involving defender Jakub Kiwior to secure the services of the 25-year-old Nigerian international.
The move comes as Arsenal look to maintain their title challenge, with the club keen to avoid the kind of form dip they experienced during Martin Odegaard’s absence earlier in the campaign.
Saka’s injury may prove timely with the January transfer window approaching, as Arsenal consider strengthening their squad to keep pace with Liverpool in the title race.
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