Muscle injuries and fatigue are often inevitable when players have to navigate a hectic schedule, including domestic league matches, international fixtures, and cup competitions. This demanding fixture list can put a strain on players’ bodies, leading to an increased risk of injuries.
It’s not uncommon for many players from top clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City, and Arsenal, among others, to experience injuries or fatigue during such busy periods because these teams have top players who have to be on International and Club duty when the call comes. Bukayo Saka has been started by Arteta in at least 87 games in a row, leading to his minor injury. Will he be fit to face City?
Bukayo Saka reportedly cleared to play vs Manchester City
Bukayo Saka’s match fitness has been a concern since the England player suffered a knock during Arsenal’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Tottenham Hotspur in September. Despite having limited training throughout the week following the injury, the 22-year-old managed to feature in Arsenal’s subsequent matches against Bournemouth in the Premier League and against Lens in the UEFA Champions League on October 3.
Bukayo Saka’s resilience was put to the test when he attempted a backheel during the match against Lens but had to be substituted in the 34th minute due to a muscular injury. Unfortunately, Arsenal went on to lose the match 2-1 in his absence, highlighting the significance of his presence on the pitch and the impact he has on the team’s performance.
The hectic schedule has been a concern for most teams, with the injury toll rising every day. Fans feared that Saka’s injury was serious following his substitution against Lens. Mikel Arteta started him for 87 games in a row, but he may be fit enough to return to action tomorrow against Manchester City.
Following his injury during the match against Lens, Bukayo Saka underwent a scan on Wednesday, October 4, and the results indicated that he did not have any serious injury concerns. However, it is still likely that he will be unavailable for Arsenal’s Premier League match against rivals Manchester City on Sunday, October 8, as well as England’s upcoming international games. This precaution is often taken to ensure players have sufficient time to recover and avoid exacerbating any potential injuries.
Mikel Arteta remains optimistic on Bukayo Saka
Mikel Arteta speaking on Bukayo Saka’s fitness, has said the Arsenal forward is ‘in contention’ for the Man City game that will be played tomorrow at the Emirates.
Bukayo Saka’s departure from the field, holding his leg in the 34th minute of Tuesday’s Group B game, was indeed concerning. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Saka had suffered a “muscular” problem during the match. However, there have been some positive reports on Bukayo Saka’s injury, as explained by the Arsenal manager.
“He is in contention,” he said. “Let’s see how he progresses from here to Sunday. Obviously, he had to leave the pitch, and that’s never good news, but let’s see how he recovers.”
Pressed further to yield more information on Saka’s injury, Arteta responded, “In contention! That’s it. I’m not a doctor. That’s what they told me.”
đ¨ BREAKING NEWS:
— Eduardo Hagn (@EduardoHagn) October 6, 2023
Bukayo Saka has been CLEARED to play against Manchester City. đ´ó §ó ˘ó Ľó Žó §ó ż
Reports, @SamiMokbel81_DM and @IsaanKhan_. pic.twitter.com/QacW1oIWrb
However, despite Saka’s injury situation and the fact that the player needs some rest, Gareth Southgate has included him in the squad to feature in the coming International duties. Mikel Arteta addressed this situation also saying,
“I have spoken to Gareth [Southgate] on several occasions. I have to do my job by giving the news and the position that everyone is at. We have good communication.”
“He needs to make the best decision for the national team, and I’m not going to get involved there.” Ultimately, Bukayo Saka is not certain for the City match, but he could play if his injury situation improves.
