Arsenal supporters can take a moment to relax after initial scans on Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard revealed no long-term damage following Saturday’s dominant 5-0 win over Leeds United.
Both stars had left the pitch looking concerned, sparking fears of serious injuries early in the season.
What Happened During the Match
Odegaard, Arsenal’s captain, went down in the 14th minute with a right shoulder injury after being pulled back by Leeds midfielder Anton Stach.
Moments later, Saka picked up a hamstring issue just after Leeds conceded their third goal thanks to summer signing Viktor Gyokeres.
Manager Mikel Arteta admitted after the game that he feared Saka had suffered a “significant” hamstring injury, prompting a second-half substitution.
Odegaard also exited early, clutching his shoulder, leaving fans anxious about Arsenal’s injury list.
Context of Previous Injuries
Arsenal’s injury worries aren’t new. Saka missed three-and-a-half months last season due to a torn right hamstring, returning only in April.
Similarly, Odegaard was sidelined for 12 matches last campaign with an ankle injury.
And earlier this season, Kai Havertz’s knee problem led Arsenal to invest £67.5 million in Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.
Despite these concerns, Sunday’s scans suggested that Saka and Odegaard’s injuries aren’t as severe as initially feared, though further assessments are scheduled for the week ahead.
Saka’s Careful Exit and Past Struggles
Saka left the pitch gingerly and was met with a reassuring hug from Arteta as he made way for Leandro Trossard.
Given his previous hamstring tear against Crystal Palace last December, fans understandably remain watchful.
That injury required surgery and kept the winger out for months, leaving a noticeable gap in Arsenal’s lineup.
Odegaard’s Injury History
Odegaard’s shoulder concern is also tempered by history.
Last autumn, the Norwegian midfielder missed several games after an ankle injury on international duty.
Despite setbacks, both players are expected to recover fully, much to the relief of the Arsenal squad and fans alike.
Arteta Confident in Squad Depth
Speaking about his current team, Arteta remains upbeat. He believes the squad is the strongest he has had since taking charge in December 2019.
“In terms of numbers and quality, yes, for sure,” he said, highlighting the depth that allows Arsenal to compete for top positions despite injuries.
The manager also clarified that the signing of Eberechi Eze was not a reaction to Havertz’s injury.
“We’ve been very prepared and understanding what we could do, and we decided this is the moment to act,” he explained.
Regarding Havertz, Arteta added, “We need more tests to know the next steps, but mentally he’s in a strong place and very committed.”
Looking Ahead
With Saka and Odegaard expected to recover and Eze strengthening the squad, Arsenal fans can remain optimistic.
Arteta’s team looks capable of pushing on and ending their streak of second-place finishes, keeping the Gunners in the hunt for silverware this season.
