Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard picked up knocks in the big win over Leeds.
Saka & Odegaard suffer injuries
Arsenal were in high spirits following their 5-0 victory away to Leeds. But, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard were both injured and were substituted.
Saka limped off in the second half clutching his left hamstring. Though, he scored one goal earlier in the match. The sight of the winger leaving the pitch raised alarm bells. That is especially since the knock came after a sprint and sharp pass.
Club skipper Odegaard had his own troubles as well. He was playing through pain before finally giving in to a shoulder problem in the 38th minute. He was replaced by Ethan Nwaneri, leaving Mikel Arteta with more questions than answers.
The timing could not be much worse for the Gunners. That is particularly with Liverpool game up next. The real talking point was whether their stars will be fit in time for the huge clash next weekend.
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,… pic.twitter.com/33JAfK8axK
— Physio Scout | Football Injury Analysis (@physioscout) August 23, 2025
Expert verdict raises concerns
Fans turned straight to Physio Scout for answers, hoping for some clarity. The injury expert’s early read doesn’t bring much comfort. Odegaard’s shoulder issue appears manageable, though still serious enough to cast doubt over his availability for Liverpool.
Although, Saka’s situation appears more complicated. The hamstring injury looked like a strain rather than just tightness and that typically means a longer recovery time.
The north London fans know how much both men mean to Arteta’s system. Saka is the spark on the wing, Odegaard is the brain in midfield. Losing either would hurt, losing both at once could shift the whole mood around the Emirates.
Author’s Opinion
Arsenal appear to be on track. But, injuries to some of their key players is a big worry. If they are both out against Liverpool, that is a big test for squad depth and character.