Arsenal will have to start their Champions League journey without one of their most influential players, after Mikel Arteta confirmed that Bukayo Saka remains sidelined with a hamstring problem.
The 23-year-old winger has been absent since hobbling off during the Gunners’ 5-0 thrashing of Leeds United last month, and there is still no definitive date set for his return.
Saka’s injury has been a huge talking point for Arsenal supporters, not only because of his importance to the team, but also due to the lack of clarity over when he will be back in action.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s European opener away at Athletic Club, Arteta admitted that the club are still unable to put a firm timescale on his recovery.
He added
“No (update), there’s still a lot to go through. Very early or when which week he will be available. He will certainly be pushing to be available as quickly as possible.”
While the Arsenal boss praised Saka’s determination and work ethic during his rehabilitation, he made it clear that the England international will not feature in Spain on Tuesday night.
Arsenal’s injury crisis deepens
The winger is not the only absentee. Arsenal will also be missing four other key players: Ben White, Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
Each of them is recovering from separate injury issues, leaving Arteta without several of his most trusted starters for a crucial European fixture.
Ødegaard’s creativity in midfield, Havertz’s versatility, White’s defensive presence, and Jesus’ ability to lead the line are all qualities Arsenal will have to do without. Combined with Saka’s absence, it leaves the manager facing difficult decisions about team selection at San Mamés.
Why Saka’s return is vital
Over the last three seasons, Saka has established himself as Arsenal’s most consistent attacking outlet.
His direct running, chance creation and goals have been instrumental in Arsenal’s push for silverware, even though last season ended in disappointment with Manchester City once again edging them out in the Premier League title race.
Saka has also carried the responsibility of being a difference-maker in Europe, and his absence could hinder Arsenal’s chances of making a strong start in the Champions League. For a team that has been desperate to translate domestic progress into European success, losing such a key player at the beginning of the campaign is far from ideal.
The road ahead for Arsenal
The trip to Athletic Club will be followed by one of the biggest matches of Arsenal’s season: a Premier League clash against Manchester City at the Emirates on Sunday. With both fixtures demanding intensity, quality and depth, the injury situation could not have come at a worse time for Arteta.
The Spaniard will need other players to step up in Saka’s absence, with the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Eddie Nketiah likely to shoulder more attacking responsibility. Young talents could also find opportunities, though the burden of expectation will weigh heavily on the more experienced forwards.
As for Saka, Arsenal supporters will be desperate for good news, but for now Arteta’s message is clear: patience is required, and the star winger will only return once he is fully ready. Until then, Arsenal must find a way to cope without him in one of the most challenging weeks of their season so far.
