Arsenal are awaiting further results from a scan before the severity of Bukayo Saka’s quad injury can be assessed, Mikel Arteta has confirmed.
The England international was forced off early during the midweek Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich. Arteta said Saka had significant fluid around the affected area, making it difficult for the club to determine the extent of the problem.
“He’s going for an MRI this afternoon because he had a lot of fluid in the area so it was difficult to understand the severity of the injury,” the Arsenal manager said.
“We will know more tomorrow. We need a few more scans and opinions from the specialists.”
The update leaves Arsenal waiting for a clearer indication of how long the 25-year-old could be unavailable. Saka has been a key player for the club, while concerns have grown over his injury problems in recent seasons.
Arsenal’s options to replace Bukayo Saka
Noni Madueke could be the most obvious alternative if Saka is ruled out, having impressed so far this season. However, Madueke has also adapted well to operating on the left flank.
That could allow Arsenal to retain Madueke on the left and give Max Dowman, who has shown potential on the right wing, more first-team involvement.
For now, Arsenal’s priority will be establishing the extent of Saka’s injury once the MRI, further scans and specialist opinions have been reviewed.
