Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has offered a positive update on Bukayo Saka’s fitness, allaying fears that the winger could miss this weekend’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth due to injury. Saka picked up a knock during England’s international defeat to Greece and was subsequently left out of the squad for their next match against Finland as a precaution.
Concerns had grown over his availability for Arsenal’s upcoming fixture, but Arteta revealed during a press conference on Friday that Saka is in contention to play. The manager admitted the winger “probably” could have featured for England in their second match, suggesting the injury was not as serious as initially feared.
“It’s not a serious injury. He’s evolving well,” Arteta said. “He was probably good enough to play with the national team in the second game. We have some big tests today, so we are hopeful.”
Saka’s potential return will be a significant boost for Arsenal, who are already dealing with other injury concerns. Captain Martin Odegaard remains sidelined after suffering an ankle injury during last month’s international break. While doubts persist over the fitness of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli ahead of their trip to Bournemouth.
Arteta also provided an update on Odegaard, expressing optimism about the midfielder’s recovery. “He’s not going to be fit for this game. Next week will be a different story. He needs to clear some markers doing things with the ball in that latter stage of rehab. Next week will be crucial,” Arteta shared.
With Arsenal aiming to maintain momentum in their Premier League campaign. The availability of key players like Saka could be vital as they prepare for their trip to the south coast.
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