Mikel Arteta has revealed that Bukayo Saka is out for ‘many weeks’ with a hamstring injury in a major blow to Arsenal’s title hopes. Saka limped off during Arsenal’s 5-1 win at Crystal Palace last Saturday, with the winger seen leaving Selhurst Park on crutches.
![[Crystal Palace FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/GettyImages-2190294240.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
Speaking after the match, Arteta confirmed his talisman had suffered a ‘worrying’ hamstring injury but was unable to say how long he would be out for. But on Monday, in his press conference ahead of Friday’s home game against Ipswich Town, the manager was able to give a further, worrying update.
![[Arsenal v Crystal Palace - Carabao Cup Quarter Final]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/GettyImages-2190607352.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
‘It’s not looking good. He’s going to be out for many weeks,’ the Spaniard said. ‘He was gutted. You could tell that he hasn’t been injured because he was really emotional and really down. He will be fine but I think he’s going to need a few days.’.
The Times have reported that Saka’s injury is likely to rule him out for four to six weeks. In the worst case scenario, that puts his return date in early February. If that is the case, the 23-year-old will miss several huge Premier League clashes, including home matches against Tottenham and Manchester City.
He’ll also sit out the FA Cup third-round clash against Manchester United, the final two games of the Champions League league phase, and at least the first-leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle. To make matters worse for the Gunners, Raheem Sterling, the player most likely to deputise for Saka, has also been sidelined after injuring his knee last week.
