Mikel Arteta: I’d just stay at home if Arsenal didn’t have desire to win title
Arsenal Football Newsletter
The England winger has been battling an Achilles injury and has not featured at all since the Carabao Cup final defeat by Manchester City at Wembley last month.
Saka has stepped up his recovery this week, though, with Mikel Arteta confirming in Friday’s pre-match press conference that the Arsenal No7 is set to be named in the matchday squad to face Newcastle.
"Bukayo is probably going to be in the squad, so good news,” the Gunners boss said.
Although Saka is now available again, it is unlikely that he will come straight back into the Arsenal starting lineup this evening.
Riccardo Calafiori is also expected to return after missing the last three matches with a knock, but the Newcastle game comes too soon for Jurrien Timber, who is close to returning from a groin injury.
Mikel Merino is said to be “pushing every boundary” in his bid to get back following foot surgery, but is not in contention at this stage.
Back in action: Arsenal should have both Bukayo Saka and Riccardo Calafiori available to face Newcastle
“[Calafiori] probably in the squad as well,” Arteta said on Friday. “Jurrien, not in the squad.”
Asked if Merino could yet play a part in the title run-in, he replied: “It's a bit premature to say that.
“He's evolving really well. He's really pushing every boundary that he possibly can. But it's a bit early to answer that question.”
Arteta must decide to stick with the attacking formula that was largely a success against City last weekend, even if the Gunners were poor at converting their chances.
That would mean Kai Havertz again leading the attack over Viktor Gyokeres, and Eberechi Eze operating off the left wing.
Martin Odegaard returned from a knee injury at the Etihad Stadium and should continue at No10 after a clear midweek.
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With Manchester City in FA Cup semi-final action against Southampton at Wembley, Arsenal have the chance to go three points clear at the top of the Premier League table with victory over Newcastle this evening.
Predicted Arsenal XI (4-2-3-1): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Odegaard, Eze; Havertz
Injured: Merino, Timber
Time and date: 5.30pm BST on Saturday April 25, 2026
Venue: Emirates Stadium, London
How to watch: Sky Sports