Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that winger Bukayo Saka will miss Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Everton as the club awaits further medical assessments to determine the full extent of a muscle injury.
Saka was forced off the pitch just 10 minutes into Arsenal’s Champions League fixture against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena after picking up the injury while attempting a pass. Speaking immediately after the match, Arteta described the development as “really bad news,” noting that the player struggled to walk off the pitch without pain and exhibited restricted movement.
Upon the team’s return to England, Arteta provided an updated timeline regarding Saka’s recovery process. The winger is scheduled to undergo an additional MRI scan to evaluate significant fluid buildup, alongside consultations with medical specialists.
“He’s got another MRI this afternoon because he had a lot of fluid,” Arteta said. “We need a few more scans and opinions from the specialists. Let’s be a little bit patient so we can give a definitive answer. Obviously when a player has to walk off the pitch, he’s struggling to walk without any pain, he’s restricted to movement, they are not good signs.”
When asked whether recurring physical setbacks might impact Saka’s long-term playing style, Arteta pointed to a broader pattern involving both muscle and tendon issues that has affected numerous players across the game. While acknowledging the challenge, the Arsenal manager emphasized the importance of maintaining squad morale and keeping the focus on upcoming domestic fixtures.
Arteta noted that he has instructed Saka to maintain a positive presence around the training ground during his recovery period rather than dwelling on the setback. The manager stressed that the squad must control its collective energy and narrative heading into the weekend match against Everton.
In the absence of Saka, attention has shifted to potential tactical replacements within the squad. Ebere Eze stepped in during the midweek European fixture, making an immediate impact by scoring a notable goal to put Arsenal ahead. Meanwhile, young midfielder Max Dowman is also in contention for increased playing time. Dowman previously made headlines by scoring his first goal for the club in a 2-0 victory against Everton during the corresponding fixture last season.
Arteta expressed confidence in his available personnel, highlighting Eze’s positive reaction and performance following previous appearances, as well as Dowman’s ongoing development in training.
“They’re all important; we know that,” Arteta said regarding his replacement options. “I’m extremely happy with how Ebz reacted to the previous game and the impact that he had on the team and the performance that he put in. Max is training, and every time he’s got a moment to play, he’s showing that he’s a player that is going to impact the game, so for sure he’s going to have minutes.”
