Arsenal’s Arteta gives Saka injury update ahead of crucial Manchester City tie

Arsenal's Bukayo Saka receiving treatment on the pitch against Lens | Imago

FOOTBALL Arsenal’s Arteta gives Saka injury update ahead of crucial Manchester City tie

Arsenal’s Arteta gives Saka injury update ahead of crucial Manchester City tie

Ayoola Kelechi • 23:30 - 03.10.2023

It is not looking good for Arsenal and Bukayo Saka ahead of the Gunners' weekend meeting with Manchester City

Mikel Arteta’s plans for the upcoming showdown with reigning Premier League champions Manchester City have been thrown into turmoil after star winger Bukayo Saka picked up a knock during the Gunners’ UEFA Champions League loss to Lens. 

Saka injured in Lens loss

Arsenal suffered a torrid evening in Europe, throwing away an early lead to succumb to a 2-1 loss to Lens in their second UCL group game. 

However, the negatives did not end there, as Bukayo Saka was forced off the field towards the end of the first half, hobbling into the tunnel after receiving treatment on the pitch. 

Saka leaves the pitch after his injury | Imago
Saka leaves the pitch after his injury | Imago

The England international winger was replaced by Fabio Viera, sparking fears of a serious injury, which have now been confirmed by manager Mikel Arteta. 

Arteta delivers grim update

Speaking after the game against Lens, Arteta confirmed the injury to Saka and what caused it, saying, "It was an action. It was a backheel and he felt something on this specific action. He was too uncomfortable to continue."

The Spanish manager was then asked about a possible date for Saka’s return to which he replied by shaking his head and gravely adding, “It doesn’t look good.”

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This will certainly cause concern for Arsenal fans who will almost certainly see their side take on Manchester City in an early title showdown this weekend without their best player. 

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Bukayo Saka Arsenal Manchester City Champions League Premier League