Bukayo Saka injury
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Arsenal star Bukayo Saka is set to miss up to six weeks of action following a hamstring injury sustained during the Gunners’ emphatic 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace. The 23-year-old winger pulled up in the 23rd minute after delivering a low cross, signaling to the bench and collapsing to the turf clutching the back of his right leg.
Arsenal’s medical team attended to Saka on the pitch, but the England international could not continue and was replaced by Leandro Trossard. Post-match, Saka was spotted leaving Selhurst Park on crutches, sparking concerns about the severity of his injury.
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Saka’s absence comes at a critical juncture for Arsenal, with the team set to play ten matches by the end of January. These include pivotal Premier League fixtures against Tottenham, Aston Villa, and Brighton, as well as a February 3 showdown with reigning champions Manchester City. Additionally, Arsenal face two Champions League group-stage matches, an FA Cup clash with Manchester United, and the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle.
🚨BREAKING: Bukayo Saka is expected to be out for 4-6 weeks following the hamstring injury he picked up against Crystal Palace. pic.twitter.com/ThvynIoa2i
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Despite the setback, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta sought to provide reassurance. “It could have been much worse,” Arteta said, hinting at optimism for a quicker recovery.
Physio Scout, a medical analyst on social media platform X, assessed Saka’s condition based on footage of the incident. They suggested the injury is likely a grade 1 or grade 2 hamstring strain, ruling out a severe tear.
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The expert outlined recovery timelines depending on the severity of the injury:
Grade 1 strain: 2-4 weeks
Grade 2 strain: 4-6 weeks
Grade 3 strain: 8-10 weeks
“This appears more likely to be a grade 1 or 2 hamstring strain,” the analyst stated, adding that grade 3 tears are typically associated with higher hamstring injuries.
The winger previously suffered a hamstring issue while on international duty with England in October, raising questions about his susceptibility to such injuries.
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