Sophia
Arsenal finds itself grappling with an alarming number of injuries early in the 2025-26 Premier League season. Among the key players sidelined, Bukayo Saka’s absence is particularly keenly felt, leaving a significant void in the Gunners’ attacking lineup.
The Gunners’ recent defeat to title rivals Liverpool at Anfield, where they failed to score a single goal, underscored Saka’s crucial importance. Manager Mikel Arteta is undoubtedly eager to welcome his influential winger back to the pitch as soon as possible. But what’s the latest on Saka’s recovery?
When Will Bukayo Saka Return to Action?
Saka sustained his latest hamstring injury during Arsenal’s dominant 5-0 victory over Leeds United in their second Premier League match of the season. Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that the 23-year-old faces “several weeks on the sidelines at the very least.”
Speaking before the Liverpool clash, Arteta provided an update: “Bukayo is doing better, but he will be out for a few weeks, unfortunately. No surgery, it’s not as bad as the previous one. Very unfortunate to pick it up because it’s on the other side. It’s an action that requires full power from him. Then, he clashed with the opponent; he needed to change pace again, and he felt something. So he will be out for a couple of weeks.”
A History of Hamstring Woes
Saka’s current injury isn’t his first encounter with hamstring issues. Last season, he first picked up a hamstring injury in October 2024 while on international duty with England, which sidelined him for two weeks. However, a far more severe setback occurred in December.
That injury, sustained against Crystal Palace just before Christmas, required surgery for a hamstring tear, keeping him out of first-team action until the beginning of April. Fortunately, as Arteta highlighted, his current issue does not necessitate surgery, offering a glimmer of hope for a quicker return.
Who Can Step Up in Saka’s Absence?
Replacing Saka’s unique blend of creativity and goalscoring output has often been a challenge for Arsenal. However, the summer acquisition of Noni Madueke from Chelsea appears to be a timely solution.
The England international started on the right wing at Anfield and emerged as Arteta’s most dynamic creative force. Madueke also featured against Leeds, predominantly on the left flank, and has seemingly already earned the trust of his new manager.
Arteta also has other options at his disposal. Youngster Ethan Nwaneri frequently covered for Saka last season, and Leandro Trossard’s versatility makes him a viable short-term alternative. Additionally, 15-year-old Max Dowman has impressed during pre-season and the early stages of the Premier League campaign, potentially earning him more minutes on the right wing as Arsenal navigates this challenging period.
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