Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka is “ready to go” after recovering from a hamstring injury that has sidelined him for three months.
The England international, who has netted nine goals in all competitions this season, has not featured since Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on December 21.
Saka’s Long-Awaited Return
Speaking on Monday ahead of Arsenal’s crucial Premier League clash against Fulham, Arteta expressed confidence in Saka’s fitness and readiness to rejoin the squad.
“Bukayo is ready to go,” Arteta stated. “All the careful steps have been taken, so now it’s about putting him on the pitch at the right moments. But he’s been pushing hard because he really wants to be back.”
The 23-year-old underwent hamstring surgery in December, and Arsenal’s medical team has carefully managed his rehabilitation.
Despite their cautious approach, Arteta admitted that they had to hold him back at times to ensure a full recovery.
Asked if Saka could start against eighth-placed Fulham at the Emirates Stadium, Arteta responded affirmatively: “Yeah, yeah.”
A Crucial Boost For Arsenal
Saka’s return is a massive lift for Arsenal, who are currently second in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points with just nine games remaining. While their title hopes seem slim, the Gunners remain in contention for Champions League glory, with a quarter-final clash against Real Madrid set for April 8.
“Bukayo is a massive weapon,” Arteta emphasized. “We know how important he is to the team and how crucial his contributions are to our success. It’s great to have him back.”
Arsenal have struggled with injuries in recent weeks, with key forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus both sidelined. Saka’s return will provide much-needed attacking depth as the team pushes for a strong finish to the season.
A Motivated Comeback
Arteta highlighted Saka’s determination and excitement about returning to action, describing the winger’s absence as an emotional challenge for him.
“It’s more about the energy he brings. He has missed what he loves most—being around the team, training, and competing at the highest level,” Arteta said. “The fact that he’s coming back at such an important time in the season is a massive boost for him and for the squad.”
While Saka has missed the past three months, Arteta pointed out that he has been a consistent presence in Arsenal’s squad for the last four years.
“He hasn’t played for three months, but he’s played for the last 48 months. So three in 48 is a very small percentage.”
Squad Updates
In addition to Saka’s return, Arsenal have also received positive news regarding defender Jurrien Timber, who is available after recovering from illness. However, fellow defender Riccardo Calafiori faces a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a knee injury while on international duty with Italy.
Andrea Berta’s Arrival at Arsenal
Arteta also spoke highly of Arsenal’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, whose appointment was confirmed on Sunday. The 53-year-old Italian, formerly of Atletico Madrid, replaces former Arsenal midfielder Edu in the role.
“We believe that he is someone who is going to have a big impact at the club,” Arteta said. “He has experience, a strong personality, charisma, and a winning mentality that will be contagious.”
With Saka back in contention, Arsenal will look to capitalize on their attacking strength as they enter the decisive phase of the season.
As they prepare for their Premier League encounter with Fulham and their upcoming Champions League showdown against Real Madrid, Arteta will be eager to reintegrate his star winger and maximize his influence on the team’s performance. Time will tell how well he has recovered.
