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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed serious concern over Bukayo Saka’s fitness after the England international sustained a thigh injury during the Gunners’ 2-2 UEFA Champions League draw against Bayern Munich on Wednesday.
Saka was forced off just 10 minutes into the encounter at the Allianz Arena after falling to the ground while attempting a pass, prompting his replacement by Eberechi Eze.
Speaking after the match, Arteta admitted that the early indications were troubling, although the club would await further medical assessments to determine the extent of the injury.
“They are a bit concerned about Saka. When a player has to come off with sharp pain it is never good news. We have to wait and see,” Arteta said.
Despite the early setback, Arsenal delivered a spirited performance against the German giants, with Eze opening the scoring in the 25th minute following an assist from Martin Odegaard.
Bayern responded through Alphonso Davies before former Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane converted a penalty to hand the hosts a 2-1 advantage.
However, Declan Rice restored parity in the 82nd minute, firing home a crucial equaliser to secure a valuable point for the Premier League champions.
Arteta praised his players for their resilience and tactical discipline against one of Europe’s most formidable sides, describing the encounter as an exceptionally demanding contest.
The Spanish tactician also acknowledged the physical intensity of elite European football, noting that the demanding schedule and relentless pressure could expose players to injuries.
Saka’s latest fitness concern represents a potential setback for Arsenal, particularly given his influential role in the club’s attacking setup.
The 25-year-old has previously struggled with injury problems, including an Achilles issue last season and a hamstring injury in December 2024 that required surgery and kept him sidelined for more than three months.
Arsenal will now await the outcome of further medical examinations to establish the severity of the injury and determine whether the winger will be available for their forthcoming fixtures.
The draw leaves the Gunners unbeaten in their opening three Champions League matches this season, although uncertainty surrounding Saka’s fitness remains a major concern for Arteta and his coaching staff.
