An injury expert has cast their verdict on how long Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard could be sidelined for after the Arsenal duo were both forced off during Saturday’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Leeds United.
The Gunners sealed their second successive win of the 2025-26 Premier League campaign thanks to two goals apiece from Jurrien Timber and Viktor Gyokeres. Arsenal’s other goal came courtesy of Saka, who was substituted in the second half with what appeared to be an issue in his left hamstring.
Club captain Odegaard had already been subbed off through injury by this point. The Norwegian midfielder initially played on after sustaining a shoulder injury during the first half, but was eventually replaced by Ethan Nwaneri in the 38th minute.
"Martin felt something in his shoulder when he landed," Arteta said after the match. "Bukayo, carrying the ball, felt something in his hamstring. I think it's the other one, not the same as the previous injury.
"He felt something sprinting, that's never a good sign. We have to speak to the doctors [on Sunday]. Let's wait."
How Long Odegaard and Saka Could Be Out For
Bukayo Saka and Mikel Arteta
Bukayo Saka and Mikel Arteta
Arsenal fans are now desperately hoping for positive news about the two injured players. However, both players are now major doubts ahead of next weekend’s Premier League clash against champions Liverpool.
Supporters on X immediately requested a verdict from injury expert Physio Scout. After reviewing the footage, let’s take a closer inspection at what the early prognosis looks like.
Martin Odegaard Injury
Martin Odegaard after going off injured vs Leeds
Martin Odegaard after going off injured vs Leeds
“Martin Odegaard had to came off early in the first half for Arsenal in the clash vs. Leeds with a right shoulder injury. Direct shoulder contact with the ground, with arm next to his side, is indicative of an AC joint sprain/injury. Another possibility is a broken collarbone, but it is less likely here.
Expected Recovery Times:
Low-grade AC joint sprain:
Grade 2/3 sprain: 2–4 weeks
“If it's confirmed that it's a low-grade sprain, then a quick return can be facilitated. Usually it is a pain management issue, meaning in the worst case scenario, he'd miss a week or two.
“If it's a grade 2/3, that's a different story. But he would only miss 2-4 weeks. Scans to confirm.”
Bukayo Saka injury
Bukayo Saka after going off injured vs Leeds
Bukayo Saka after going off injured vs Leeds
Unfortunately, the expectation is that Saka is likely to be out of action for longer. In a separate tweet, Physio Scout added: “Bukayo Saka was forced off in the first half with a left hamstring injury after a sprint and pass. He looked visibly frustrated, and the mechanism suggested more of a strain than simple tightness.
Expected Recovery Times:
Grade 1: 2-4 weeks
Grade 2: 4-6 weeks
Grade 3: 8-12 weeks++
“Based on the incident, it’s more likely to be a grade 1 or 2 strain, which would put his time out between 2–6 weeks, pending scan results. Importantly, this isn’t the same hamstring that required surgery last year, which offers some reassurance.
“As always, the exact diagnosis and timeline after a hamstring injury can only be confirmed after scans. Please stay tuned for further updates.”