Saka Returns to Arsenal Squad Ahead of Newcastle Clash
Arteta Confirms Injury Boost as Calafiori Back, Timber Still Out
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka is poised to make his long-awaited return when the Gunners host Newcastle at the Emirates on Saturday, delivering a crucial boost in the Premier League title race.
Saka has been sidelined since the Carabao Cup final last month with an Achilles problem, but Arteta revealed at his pre-match press conference that the winger is likely to be included in the squad.
‘Bukayo is probably going to be in the squad, so good news,’ he said.
The update comes at a pivotal moment, with Arsenal locked on points and goal difference with Manchester City and just five matches remaining.
Arteta stressed that Saka has benefited from rest and treatment, allowing him to regain sharpness ahead of the season’s decisive run-in.
‘We’ve given him some time because he was struggling to sustain performances. He’s had the right treatment, the right space, and now he’s back with us in the most important part of the season’ Arteta explained.
Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori is also set to return after missing recent fixtures since the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting CP.
His season has been disrupted by injuries, but Arteta confirmed: ‘[Calafiori] probably in the squad as well.’
However, Dutch international Jurrien Timber remains unavailable as he continues to recover from a groin injury. Timber has missed Arsenal’s last seven matches, with Arteta stating simply: ‘Jurrien not in the squad.’
Saka’s comeback is expected to lift Arsenal’s attacking options as they chase their first league title in two decades.
Arteta noted the winger’s renewed energy in training: ‘He was in great spirits today. You can see that the sun was shining and he’s back with the team because he had a different energy. He’s been through a tough period, we certainly missed him.’
With Newcastle visiting this weekend, Arsenal will hope their returning stars can provide the spark needed to keep pace with Manchester City in a title race that could be decided by the finest of margins.
