Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal are set to welcome back a number of key first-team stars for Saturday's Premier League clash against Newcastle
13:54, 24 Apr 2026Updated 13:59, 24 Apr 2026
Bukayo Saka
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Bukayo Saka has not played for Arsenal since the Carabao Cup final
Arsenal are set to be bolstered by the returns of Bukayo Saka and Riccardo Calafiori against Newcastle.
The duo have spent varying amounts of time on the sidelines in recent weeks due to injury but they now look poised to contribute towards the Gunners' Premier League title charge.
Mikel Arteta revealed during his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday's clash with the Magpies: "No [issues]. Bukayo is probably going to be in the squad. So good news. Riccardo in the squad."
The Spaniard also confirmed the match will come too soon for Jurrien Timber, who remains absent.
Saka has not played for Arsenal since he started the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City before the recent international break.
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The England winger has been suffering from an achilles issue which needed to be managed carefully.
He was unable to beat his race against the clock in time to face City at the Etihad Stadium last weekend but could earn some precious minutes tomorrow.
Arteta added that Saka is seemingly overjoyed to be back involved with the group, stating: "He was in great spirits today; you could see that today."
Meanwhile, defender Timber has been missing for the best part of six weeks after limping off against Everton on March 14.
The Dutchman started the 2-0 victory over the Toffees but had to come off before half-time due to a groin issue after also receiving a blow to the ankle.
Calafiori has been out for slightly less than Saka and Timber after picking up a knock in the 1-0 Champions League win at Sporting CP.
He missed the return leg and was also forced to sit out of recent top-flight games against Bournemouth and title rivals City.
Jurrien Timber receives medical treatment during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Everton at Emirates Stadium.
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Jurrien Timber is closing in on his return to fitness for Arsenal(Image: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Arsenal are looking to go back to the top of the table this weekend as Manchester City are in FA Cup semi-final action against Southampton.
The Gunners dropped to second on Wednesday evening following Manchester City's 1-0 triumph on the road at Burnley, which relegated the Clarets.
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