Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has claimed that Bukayo Saka’s injury is not concerning after the winger was forced off in the draw at Manchester City.
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WHAT HAPPENED?
In the 78th minute of the tightly contested clash at the Etihad, the England international hobbled off as Gabriel Martinelli replaced him. Although he appeared to be in some pain as he left the pitch, Arteta has revealed that the 22-year-old did not suffer a fresh injury, but rather that the substitution was purely due to his low match fitness after participating in only one training session with the squad ahead of the showdown.
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WHAT ARTETA SAID
Speaking after the game, Arteta revealed the reason for Saka’s substitution [via The Standard]: “As you know he’s been out for a few weeks now with a little problem. He was feeling that fatigue. Right now he hasn’t trained. He trained just one day before the match. He made a big contribution, but 90 minutes was a lot today.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Saka was doubtful for the clash against Pep Guardiola’s side after the he had to pull out of international duty with England. However, the London-born winger was declared fit late on for the crucial title run-in clash against City. Despite his rush to fitness, Saka failed to have any sort of impact on the game as he was restricted to just 11 passes with zero dribbles completed.
WHAT NEXT FOR SAKA?
Regardless of Saka’s performance against City, the update provided by Arteta will give some comfort to Arsenal fans as they prepare to start the final leg of their title battle against Man City and Liverpool, starting with Luton Town on Wednesday, April 3.
