Mikel Arteta has expressed his concern over Bukayo Saka’s injury during Arsenal’s emphatic 5-1 win over Crystal Palace.
The England international was substituted midway through the first half after appearing to injure his hamstring while attempting a cross.
Saka headed straight down the tunnel following treatment, raising fears about the extent of the injury.
With Arsenal facing a congested fixture list over the Christmas and New Year period, Saka’s potential absence is a significant blow.
The winger was later spotted leaving Selhurst Park on crutches, further fueling speculation about his recovery timeline.
Speaking post-match, Mikel Arteta said of Saka: “We are pretty worried about Saka’s injury.
“He grabbed his hamstring and couldn’t continue. He will have to be assessed but we are pretty worried, yes.”
Speaking to Match of the Day, he added: “He felt something.
“It is too early to assess him. It was a precaution with him right now.”
While Arsenal anxiously await updates on Bukayo Saka’s condition, Gabriel Jesus’ return to form offers a glimmer of hope for Mikel Arteta and his squad during a critical stretch of the season.
The Brazilian striker ended an 11-month Premier League goal drought in style, netting twice in Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday.
His resurgence comes just days after he notched a sensational hat-trick in the Gunners’ thrilling 3-2 win against Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
With crucial fixtures on the horizon, Jesus’ return to peak form couldn’t have come at a better time for Arteta’s title-chasing side.
Speaking post-match, he said: “Obviously, the first goal was very important early on.
“The way we started, the full team was really ready to play well and fight.
“They have a strong team and quality players, and we know it is always difficult to come here.
“We did the job and I’m very happy with the goals.
“As a number nine, I know the pressure is always on to score. I am happy but the win – the three points – was massive today.
“I’m the type of guy that wants to work hard. I know my qualities.
“I know I can score. In my mind, I know I can score. I just have to put myself in a good position to finish the action, like today.
“I put two in the net and missed one I will be dreaming of.
“When I play with a smile on my face, everything is different so I’m trying to keep my mind strong and just help the team.
“I understand I have to be more in the box to finish the action.”
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