Bukayo Saka Fitness Concern for Arsenal Ahead of Chelsea Carabao Cup Tie
Arsenal face a key decision over the availability of star winger Bukayo Saka for their crucial Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea on Tuesday, with manager Mikel Arteta providing a mixed update on the player's condition.
Injury Scare at Elland Road
The England international was initially named in the starting line-up for Arsenal's Premier League fixture against Leeds United on Saturday, but suffered a setback during the warm-up at Elland Road. Saka was forced to withdraw from the match just before kick-off, with Noni Madueke stepping in as his replacement.
Despite Saka's absence, Arsenal delivered an impressive performance, securing a comprehensive 4-0 victory in West Yorkshire. Arteta addressed the situation post-match, explaining: 'He had a little niggle and he wasn't comfortable to start the game so we made a decision straight away.'
Arteta's Cautious Approach
Speaking at a press conference on Monday afternoon, the Gunners boss provided further insight into Saka's suspected hip issue. 'Yeah, we have to wait. Today he was better, but we have to wait and see. Have a response and then make the decision,' Arteta stated.
The Spanish manager offered some reassurance regarding the severity of the problem, adding: 'It doesn't look like something too serious. Whether he's going to be available for tomorrow or the weekend, we'll see.'
Carabao Cup Context
Arsenal enter Tuesday's encounter with a narrow 3-2 advantage from the first leg at Stamford Bridge, making Saka's potential participation particularly significant. The Carabao Cup represents a genuine opportunity for silverware this season, adding importance to team selection decisions.
Additional Injury Concerns
While Saka's situation remains day-to-day, Arsenal have received more definitive news regarding midfielder Mikel Merino. The Spanish international has suffered a fractured foot that will likely keep him sidelined for the majority of the remaining campaign, if not the entire season.
Arteta expressed disappointment at this development, noting: 'He's a big player for us. An athlete that has such a versatility and capacity to compete in various positions. Yeah, that's a big blow.'
The manager elaborated on the unusual nature of Merino's injury: 'It's a very rare injury, so we have to wait and see once we have the surgery. How that reacts daily.'
Squad Fitness Overview
Beyond these two cases, Arsenal's injury list remains relatively manageable. Max Dowman continues his recovery on the sidelines, but no new fitness issues emerged from the weekend's victory at Leeds.
When questioned about additional concerns, Arteta confirmed: 'No, nothing. You're aware of all of them.'
Looking Ahead
Arteta faces a delicate balancing act with Saka's fitness, weighing the importance of the Carabao Cup semi-final against the need to protect a key asset for the remainder of the season. The manager's comments suggest a cautious approach, with a final decision likely to be made close to kick-off.
Meanwhile, the other Carabao Cup semi-final continues on Wednesday as Manchester City defend a 2-0 first-leg advantage against Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium.
