Arsenal were handed a worrying injury scare just moments before kick-off at Elland Road after Bukayo Saka picked up an issue during the warm-up ahead of their Premier League clash with Leeds United.
With injuries already mounting at a crucial stage of the season, the sight of one of Arsenal’s most important attackers leaving the pitch early sparked immediate concern among supporters.
What happened to Bukayo Saka?
Saka appeared to suffer a hip problem during a rondo drill shortly before kick-off and was quickly withdrawn as a precaution. Noni Madueke was drafted into the starting XI at the last minute.
After Arsenal’s emphatic 4-0 victory, Mikel Arteta moved to calm fears by revealing the injury may not be serious.
Speaking to Sky Sports via Football.London, Arteta said:
“He had a little niggle and he wasn’t comfortable to start the game.
So we made the decision straight away, and now we are going to have to do some tests tomorrow and see how he is.”
While the initial update is encouraging, Arsenal will now await scan results in the coming days, hoping the issue is nothing more than a minor setback.
Madueke certainly made a strong case for himself against Leeds. The winger delivered two assists inside the opening 45 minutes, making an immediate impact after being thrown into the side with almost no preparation time.
His first contribution was a dangerous cross that found Martin Zubimendi, while his corner shortly after resulted in an own goal from Karl Darlow.
With Gabriel Jesus and Viktor Gyökeres also on the scoresheet, Arsenal cruised to victory and restored their seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.
Arteta praises Madueke’s performance
Arteta was full of praise for Madueke’s composure and effectiveness, especially given the circumstances of his late inclusion.
“In the warm-up, he had a little niggle, so we made the decision.
We made the change to bring Noni in — you cannot do that in two minutes.
So very impressive.”
While Madueke’s display was encouraging, Saka’s injury scare once again highlights Arsenal’s lack of depth on the right flank — a problem that could push sporting director Andrea Berta into action before the January window closes.
