Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that winger Bukayo Saka will miss “many weeks” of action due to a hamstring injury. The 23-year-old was substituted during Saturday’s 5-1 win against Crystal Palace and left Selhurst Park on crutches.

Saka has been in impressive form this season, scoring nine goals and providing 13 assists across 24 games in all competitions. His absence will be a significant blow to Arsenal’s chances, but Arteta is already planning for life without his star winger. 

“It’s not looking good. He’s going to be out for many weeks. It is what it is. He’s injured, we cannot change it.” Arteta said.

Arteta revealed that Saka had suffered a torn hamstring and acknowledged that the injury may have been preventable. “There are ways to prevent the injury. There are a lot of factors. We are looking at everything and what we can do differently.” The Arsenal manager also expressed concern about the congested fixture list, citing the accumulation of matches as a contributing factor to Saka’s injury.

Saka is said to be “gutted” and “really emotional” after discovering the severity of his injury. Arteta will now have to find ways to cope without his star winger, but he is confident that the team can adapt. Arsenal have already experienced life without captain Martin Odegaard this season, and Arteta believes that the team can draw on that experience.

In another blow to Arsenal, Arteta also confirmed that Raheem Sterling is set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a knee injury. The Gunners will face Ipswich at Emirates Stadium in the League on December 27, and Arteta will have to find a way to overcome the absence of two key players.

Arsenal’s injury woes may provide an opportunity for other players to step up and make an impact. Arteta will be hoping that his team can show the same resilience and adaptability that has characterized their season so far. With Saka and Sterling out, the Gunners will need to dig deep to maintain their momentum in the League.