Arsenal have been dealt a huge blow as manager, Mikel Arteta, has revealed the extent of Bukayo Saka’s injury and how long one of the club’s key players will be out injured.
Saka was forced off midway through the first half of Arsenal’s win at Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday, wincing while grabbing his thigh before limping off.
The England international was later seen walking in crutches while leaving Selhurst Park after the match, further raising fears of the club and fans regarding the extent of his injury.
Arteta has now confirmed that the 24-year-old has suffered a torn hamstring and will be out for several weeks.
“It’s not looking good. He’s going to be out for many weeks,” Arteta said. “It’s a huge blow, but it’s going to be a big exercise for us to overcome another challenge.
While the exact period Saka will be sidelined has not been stated, it is estimated he could be out until February, ruling him out of a number of crucial matches.
Saka will definitely miss the FA Cup clash against Manchester United as well as the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle United.
He will also miss up to seven matches in the Premier League as well as two Champions League matches, including the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on January 15, and a clash against Aston Villa three days later.
Arsenal are scheduled to face Manchester City at home on February 2, which is around the period Saka is expected to resume training if recovery goes well.