Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has raised concerns about Bukayo Saka’s physical resilience following a series of fitness setbacks over the past year. The forward is currently facing a potential six-week absence due to a thigh problem.
Injury Concerns and MRI Scan
Saka is scheduled to undergo an MRI scan after limping off during the 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Arteta stated that the 25-year-old had a significant amount of fluid in the affected area, making the initial assessment of the injury difficult. While he will certainly miss the upcoming match against Everton, Arsenal reportedly fears the issue is a grade-two tear that could keep him out for up to six weeks.
The forward has dealt with numerous fitness problems since September 2023, including hamstring, hip, and achilles tendon issues that caused him to miss significant portions of previous campaigns. Reflecting on Saka’s durability, Arteta acknowledged the extreme physical demands placed on modern players through intense match schedules, international tournaments, and shortened recovery windows.
The manager explained that the club has actively attempted to manage his playing time, noting that Saka was left out of the starting lineup against Lille in the Champions League to help preserve him. However, Arteta pointed out that the constant pressure to win and the high intensity of matches make managing workloads challenging.
Workload Management and Future Impact
Prior to his recent struggles, Saka displayed remarkable resilience, missing only three Premier League matches across three seasons from 2021 to 2024 and setting an Arsenal record with 83 consecutive top-flight appearances. Having joined the club at age seven, he is nearing 300 total appearances for Arsenal and signed a lucrative long-term contract in February.
When asked if he worried about burnout given Saka’s early professional debut at age 17, Arteta dismissed the notion while emphasizing the need for proper support structures. He stated that the club must carefully evaluate how to handle his physical load and maintain his effectiveness upon his return.
Potential Opportunity for Max Dowman
Saka’s potential absence could open the door for 16-year-old Max Dowman to feature against Everton. Although Dowman has logged only nine minutes of league action this season, Arteta expressed confidence in the young player, who previously made history by becoming the youngest goalscorer in the Premier League against David Moyes’s team in March.
Arteta recalled the memorable moment of Dowman’s historic goal and praised his development during training sessions. The manager confirmed that the teenager consistently demonstrates his ability to influence matches and will receive playing time.
Source: Football | The Guardian
