According to reports, Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, is prepared to purchase a replacement for Bukayo Saka during the summer transfer window. As Arteta puts it, Saka will be out for “many weeks” due to a ruptured hamstring. Saka had to use crutches to leave Selhurst Park after being forced off during Saturday night’s 5-1 thumping of Crystal Palace. According to Arteta’s report, it’s also unlikely that the England international will play again until February.
Says the Spaniard: “It’s a big [blow].” Things don’t look good. For several weeks, he will be absent. I am unable to provide too much detail since I am unsure. He was devastated, but his intense reaction betrays that he is unharmed. We must boost him up because he was in a very bad mood. Raheem Sterling is the Gunners’ seasoned backup, but the forward on loan has suffered a knee injury during practice. The severity of his injury will be confirmed by tests in the next few days.
“In order to replace Saka, I’m coming up with some ideas. Although I have a few, I haven’t reached it yet. I want to talk to him and make an effort to see the bright side of it. Things will be different between us. We had stretches when Martin [Odegaard] was out and when five or six defenders weren’t present. Our perspective is one of positivity. Arteta suggested that may happen again when Gabriel Martinelli moved to Saka’s right-sided seat following his retirement at Selhurst Park, with substitute Leandro Trossard on the left.
“Martinelli played there previously, including in the season-ending encounter against Everton. He performed quite well. We’re on it; he’s a good choice.” There is a venue where Gabi, Kai [Havertz], Leo, and Ethan [Nwaneri] have all performed. We will speak with them to learn about their feelings. It breaks Bukayo’s heart. He appeared to be in good health since he was so emotional and depressed. I believe it will take him a few days, but he will be OK.” Gabriel Jesus, Martinelli, and Trossard seem to be Arteta’s Plan A, as they have no urgent intention to make a daring move in the January window.