Bukayo Saka
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Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is edging closer to a return after being pictured in full training for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury in December. The 23-year-old could be in contention for the Gunners’ squad against Fulham on Tuesday as he continues his recovery.
Saka sustained the injury during Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace, forcing him to leave the pitch in visible discomfort. Days later, he underwent surgery, ruling him out for the club’s last 19 matches across all competitions. His absence has been a significant setback in Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge, with Mikel Arteta’s side now trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points. The Gunners were also eliminated from both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup during his spell on the sidelines.
Arteta has been forced to adapt his attacking setup in Saka’s absence, with Mikel Merino deployed as a false nine due to long-term injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri has been tasked with playing on the right wing.
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However, there is renewed optimism as Saka has been gradually increasing his training intensity over the international break. He is expected to be fully fit in time for Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid, but there is now a possibility that he could return to the squad for Tuesday’s Premier League fixture against Fulham.
WE ARE SO F**KING BACK!!!
TEARS IN MY EYES!🥹🥹🥹 pic.twitter.com/bZVdfFe6yz
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) March 27, 2025
The England international hinted at his progress on Thursday by posting a picture on Instagram of himself smiling at Arsenal’s London Colney training ground, captioned: “Hello again.”
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Now back in full training, he will be looking to build on an impressive season in which he has contributed nine goals and 13 assists in all competitions.
Following his surgery, Saka assured fans that he would return stronger, writing: “The majority see obstacles, but few see the opportunities. Recovery has begun, and I’m coming back stronger! Thank you all for your messages.”
His return could not come at a more crucial time, with Arsenal aiming to keep their Champions League hopes alive in a highly anticipated showdown against defending champions Real Madrid.
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