Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka is set to make his return to the starting lineup against Fulham on Tuesday.
The England international has been sidelined since December due to a hamstring tear sustained at Crystal Palace.
However, after an intense rehabilitation period during the international break, Saka is now fit and ready to contribute to the Gunners’ Premier League campaign.
Saka’s Return: A Timely Boost for Arsenal
Saka’s absence has been felt deeply by Arsenal, who are looking to close the 12-point gap between themselves and league leaders Liverpool. The 23-year-old winger’s return is expected to inject much-needed energy into the squad as they enter the crucial final stretch of the season.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta expressed his confidence in Saka’s readiness:
“Bukayo Saka is ready to go. All the careful things have already been done. Now it’s about putting him on the grass at the right moment. But he’s pushing because he really wants to.”
Arteta further emphasized the club’s commitment to ensuring Saka’s recovery was managed correctly:
“We have respected the timeline and we have done everything. We had to hold him back, but he is ready to go. He can start.”
Saka’s return adds a vital attacking option for Arsenal. His creativity, dribbling ability, and goal contributions have been instrumental in the team’s recent successes.
Arteta acknowledged this impact, stating:
“He’s another massive weapon. We know how much of an impact he’s had for the team in his role and with his contributions to our success, so it’s great to have him back.”
Injury Setback for Riccardo Calafiori
While Saka’s return brings positive news for Arsenal, the club faces another setback with full-back Riccardo Calafiori.
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Arteta confirmed that the Italian defender suffered a knee injury while on international duty, extending his time on the sidelines.
“It’s a knee injury. Both injuries were with the international team,” Arteta explained. “Really unfortunate the way it happened—it could be much worse. Hopefully, it’s going to be a matter of weeks, but we will have to see how it goes.”
Calafiori’s injury comes at a critical juncture for Arsenal, who are already managing squad depth challenges.
His defensive contributions have been crucial, and his absence will require Arteta to adjust his tactics accordingly.
Jurrien Timber’s Recovery and Squad Depth
Another positive development for Arsenal is the recovery of Jurrien Timber. The Dutch defender missed international duty due to illness but has now returned to full fitness. Arteta provided an update on Timber’s condition:
“Jurrien was ill for a long period, quite badly. He’s felt much better in the last few days, so he’s available.”
With Timber back in contention, Arsenal’s defensive options receive a boost, which could prove valuable as they prepare for a demanding fixture schedule.
Andrea Berta Joins Arsenal as Sporting Director
In addition to on-field developments, Arsenal recently confirmed the appointment of Andrea Berta as the club’s new sporting director.
Berta, who joins from Atletico Madrid, replaces the outgoing Edu and is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the club’s future.
Arteta shared his thoughts on Berta’s arrival:
“It’s a big addition to the club a team that already has a lot of great people who have been doing such a great job. It’s now about building that chemistry, so we are all very excited to have him.”
The Spanish coach praised Berta’s vision and commitment to Arsenal’s project:
“He is a very honest and straightforward person. He has a very clear vision of what he wants to do.
He was so willing to join us, which is positive. He had many other possibilities but has chosen to come to us.
Now it’s about us giving him the support. He has done well for many, many years at the highest level.”
Arsenal’s Road Ahead
With Saka returning, Timber available, and a new sporting director in place, Arsenal appears to be heading into the final stretch of the season with renewed energy.
However, Calafiori’s injury poses a challenge that Arteta and his team must navigate.
As the Gunners prepare to take on Fulham, fans will be eager to see how these latest developments influence the team’s performance. With the Premier League title race still open, every game is crucial, and having key players return at the right time could make all the difference.
Bukayo Saka’s return is a massive boost for Arsenal as they aim to close the gap on Liverpool. While the loss of Riccardo Calafiori is unfortunate, the recovery of Jurrien Timber and the appointment of Andrea Berta provide positives for the club.
Arteta will now focus on maximizing his squad’s potential as Arsenal looks to finish the season on a high note.
