Saka Set for Arsenal Return After Injury Layoff

Bukayo Saka is fit and ready to return for Arsenal after being sidelined for three months due to a hamstring injury, according to manager Mikel Arteta.

The 23-year-old England international, who has netted nine goals across all competitions this season, has not played since Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on December 21.

“Saka is ready to go,” Arteta confirmed ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Fulham.

All necessary precautions have been taken, so now it’s just about easing him back onto the pitch at the right moments. But he’s eager to return—he’s been pushing for it,” he added.

“We followed the recovery timeline carefully, and at times we even had to hold him back. Now, he’s fully ready.”

When asked if Saka could be included in the starting lineup against eighth-placed Fulham at the Emirates, Arteta responded, “Yes, absolutely.”

The Arsenal boss emphasized Saka’s importance to the squad, saying, “He’s a major asset for us. His impact on the team has been immense, and his contributions are crucial to our success. Having him back is fantastic.”

Arsenal currently sit second in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points with only nine matches left, making a title challenge unlikely. However, the Gunners remain in contention in the Champions League, with a quarter-final first-leg clash against Real Madrid set for April 8.

Saka’s return provides a crucial boost for Arteta, especially with key attacking players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus dealing with long-term injuries.

“It’s not just about his skills on the field, but also the energy he brings,” Arteta explained. “He’s been away from what he loves most—training, playing, and competing at the highest level. Having him back at such a crucial stage of the season is a huge lift for both him and the team.”

Although Saka has missed the past three months, Arteta pointed out that he had played consistently for four years prior to his injury. “Three months out of 48 is a small fraction. He’ll be ready,” he assured.

In other team news, Jurrien Timber has recovered from illness and is available for selection. However, defender Riccardo Calafiori faces a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a knee injury while on international duty for Italy.

Arteta also spoke positively about Arsenal’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, whose appointment was announced on Sunday.

The 53-year-old Italian, formerly with Atletico Madrid, replaces Edu in the role.

“We’re confident he will have a significant impact on the club,” Arteta said.

He surely brings a wealth of experience, a strong personality, and a winning mentality. That mindset will be infectious within the team.”