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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a significant injury update, revealing that Bukayo Saka is “getting closer” to making a return in what would be a major boost for the Gunners.
Saka has been sidelined since before Christmas after suffering a serious hamstring tear in a match against Crystal Palace. The England winger underwent surgery and has since been forced to watch Arsenal’s title bid falter from the sidelines. His absence has been compounded by the loss of Gabriel Jesus, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season, leaving Arteta with limited attacking options.
However, with the 2024-25 campaign reaching its decisive stages, Arteta hinted that Saka’s return is on the horizon.
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Speaking in his press conference on Friday, Arteta said: “He’s getting closer. He’s stepping up and making very good progress, I would say. So let’s see when we start to throw him in with the team, how he reacts, and how fit he can get quickly.”
🚨BREAKING: Mikel Arteta on Bukayo Saka: “He’s getting closer. He’s stepping up and making very good progress. Let’s see when we decide to throw him in, how he reacts and how fit he can get quickly.” pic.twitter.com/klyIxuoa4B
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) March 14, 2025
Despite the encouraging news, Saka will not be available for Arsenal’s crucial clash against Chelsea on Sunday. However, Arteta has been bolstered by the returns of Gabriel Martinelli and Ben White, both of whom have recently recovered from injuries.
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White, who has been sidelined for months with a knee issue, has now fully recovered and is once again available for England selection. New Three Lions manager Thomas Tuchel has even handed a first senior call-up to Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Arteta confirmed that White has suffered no setbacks in his recovery, saying: “He has been involved for the last two weeks almost, and his knee is not reacting, so that is very positive. Ben is a really important player for us, he brings something very different to the team dynamic, and I am thrilled to have him.”
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