Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta ready for the challenge of coping without Bukayo Saka Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta believes Bukayo Saka’s absence will transform him into a better manager.
Arteta is set to oversee a pivotal time in Arsenal’s campaign with nine fixtures in January – including a north London derby against Tottenham in the Premier League, an FA Cup third-round clash against Manchester United, and the opening leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle – following their final game of 2024 against Ipswich.
Arteta confirmed ahead of the visit of the Tractor Boys that the England winger, who has nine goals and 13 assists this season, faces “many weeks” on the sidelines after he tore his hamstring in Arsenal’s 5-1 dismantling of Crystal Palace last weekend.
The Gunners will begin a period of matches – which is likely to extend into double figures – without Saka when they host Ipswich at the Emirates on Friday.
Saka’s injury comes a month after captain Martin Odegaard returned to following 12 matches out with an ankle problem.
