Bukayo Saka injury news has dealt Mikel Arteta a major setback just days before Arsenal face Liverpool at Anfield. The 23-year-old limped off in the 5-0 win against Leeds with a hamstring problem, and medical staff now estimate he will be sidelined for up to four weeks.
That timeline means Saka is out of Sunday’s showdown with the Premier League champions and England’s World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia next month.
Adding to the headache, club captain Martin Ødegaard is also a doubt after suffering a shoulder injury in the same game. The Norway international departed with his arm in a sling, though there is optimism his setback is less severe. Still, could Arsenal really be without both their captain and star winger in their toughest league test yet?
How Arsenal Can Cope Without Saka
Last season, Saka missed three months with a similar hamstring issue — and Arsenal’s form dipped alarmingly. This time, the club believe their summer recruitment has given them greater depth.
Viktor Gyökeres, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze all arrived in a statement of intent, joining Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard as wide and creative options. Youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Max Dowman are also pushing for opportunities.
Arteta has rotated more aggressively this season, meaning the Gunners may be better prepared to absorb Saka’s absence. But with Liverpool’s relentless pressing and attacking full-backs, will Arsenal’s alternatives be able to provide the same defensive work rate and direct threat?
Relief Over Injury Timeline
While losing Saka is a blow, there is relief inside Arsenal that the winger’s setback is not long-term. Initial scans showed no major tear, making a September return realistic.
“Bukayo is an important player for us, but we believe this is a short-term injury. We have options and players ready to step up.”
Saka’s 2024/25 Numbers
| Stat (2024/25) | Bukayo Saka |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 37 |
| Goals | 12 |
| Assists | 14 |
| Chances Created | — |
source: sofascore match data – 25 Aug 2025
His attacking numbers underline how difficult he is to replace. Even in games where he doesn’t score, Saka’s ability to stretch defences and create chances makes him Arsenal’s most irreplaceable forward.
Analyst Verdict – John William
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Saka’s absence could tilt the Anfield clash.
Without Saka’s pace and defensive covering, Kerkez will have more freedom to attack down Liverpool’s right. Arsenal may turn to Martinelli or Madueke in that slot, but neither offers the same two-way reliability.
From England’s perspective, Thomas Tuchel will also be frustrated. Qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia are winnable, but Saka’s understanding with Harry Kane is a crucial attacking weapon. Tuchel will now likely turn to Cole Palmer or Phil Foden in his absence.
Key Insights
- Saka ruled out for up to four weeks with hamstring injury.
- Will miss Liverpool clash and England’s September qualifiers.
- Ødegaard also doubtful with shoulder issue.
- Arsenal’s summer signings soften blow but test depth.
- Return expected by late September barring setbacks.
What’s Next
Arsenal will give Ødegaard every chance to prove his fitness before Anfield, but Saka is definitely out. Arteta could turn to Madueke for width, while Eze may slot into midfield if Ødegaard misses out.
For England, Tuchel will reassess his attacking options before naming his squad this week. With Saka sidelined, an opportunity opens for fringe talents like Anthony Gordon or Madueke to step in.
Can Arsenal beat Liverpool without Bukayo Saka — or will his absence prove decisive in the title race?
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