Arsenal’s title hopes have suffered a major setback with news that Bukayo Saka is expected to be out of action until March.
The Gunners’ forward is anticipated to miss up to 15 matches during this crucial stage of the season.
Saka suffered a hamstring injury in the first half of Saturday’s 5-1 win against Crystal Palace.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Monday that Saka, aged 23, will be sidelined for “several weeks” — suggesting that the winger may miss a considerable part of the season.
Arteta remarked: “The prognosis isn’t good. He’s going to be out for a number of weeks.
“I can’t give precise details since I’m unsure — but it will be an extended absence.
“There’s not much to go on in terms of his medical history as he hasn’t had many issues in the past.
“However, given how quickly he tends to recover, we can be optimistic that we may reduce that timeframe.”
As it stands, Arsenal is positioned third in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by six points, with one more match played.
The Gunners have 15 matches across all competitions scheduled before February 25, starting with a home game against Ipswich at the Emirates on Friday.
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This number does not include the possibility of Arteta’s squad, currently engaged in four competitions, advancing further in the cup tournaments.
Arteta indicated that he would only turn to the transfer market for a replacement for Saka if “something remarkable” arises during the upcoming window.
Major Arsenal setback as Bukayo Saka sidelined for ‘many weeks’ after injury forces him out
He further noted: “My focus is entirely on our current squad — on the resources we have to stay competitive.
“We do have several options available. However, if something exceptional comes up, and the club is willing to act, we will have to assess the situation.”
English international Saka was seen on crutches after leaving Selhurst Park.
Arteta emphasized that the England star, who has scored nine goals and provided ten assists across all competitions this season, was extremely disheartened.
The manager shared: “He is heartbroken. Clearly, he hasn’t experienced such an injury before as he was very emotional and down. It’s vital that we support him.”
Raheem Sterling is a potential candidate to step in on the right wing, but the Chelsea loanee recently suffered a knee injury during training.
Arteta concluded: “He’ll need several weeks out, but further tests are necessary.”
15 matches Bukayo Saka is projected to miss
Premier League except where noted
- Ipswich (H) – December 27
- Brentford (A) – January 1
- Brighton (A) – January 4
- Newcastle (H) – January 7 (Carabao Cup)
- Man Utd (H) – January 12 (FA Cup)
- Tottenham (H) – January 15
- Aston Villa (H) – January 18
- Dinamo Zagreb (H) – January 22 (Champions League)
- Wolves (A) – January 25
- Girona (A) – January 29 (Champions League)
- Man City (H) – February 1
- Newcastle (A) – February 5 (Carabao Cup)
- Leicester (A) – February 15
- West Ham (H) – February 22
- Nottingham Forest (A) – February 25









