
Mikel Arteta Addresses Fears Over Bukayo Saka Ankle Injury
Arsenal Boss Calms Nerves After Star Winger Subbed Off vs Ipswich
It was a comfortable 4-0 win for Arsenal on paper, but Sunday’s clash with Ipswich Town came with a heart-in-mouth moment for Gunners fans — one that overshadowed the final scoreline. Bukayo Saka, the heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s side, was forced off the pitch after a reckless challenge from Ipswich defender Leif Davis that left him nursing an ankle knock and supporters holding their breath.
Thankfully for Arsenal fans, Mikel Arteta had some reassuring words after the match.
“He Was a Bit Sore, But It’s Nothing Serious”
When asked about Saka’s condition post-match, Mikel Arteta didn’t hide the seriousness of the tackle but confirmed that the injury was not expected to keep the winger out long-term.
“He was a bit sore, but it’s nothing serious, so that’s good,” Mikel Arteta said, visibly relieved.
“He cuts him from the back. I don’t think it’s intentional at all, but obviously it’s dangerous because [Saka] cannot really react to anything — you cannot see him coming.”
The challenge in question came midway through the first half, with Davis shown a straight red card for the studs-up lunge. Saka initially tried to shake it off and continue, but was clearly not moving comfortably and was subbed off just before the hour mark. Cameras later showed him with ice strapped to his right ankle while sitting on the bench — a worrying sight for Arsenal’s medical team and supporters alike.
Timing Couldn’t Be Worse for Arsenal or Saka

Arsenal need Saka fit to face PSG in the Champions League / Julian Finney/GettyImages
Saka only returned to competitive action earlier this month after a long three-month layoff following hamstring surgery. He was carefully reintroduced into the squad on April 1 against Fulham, and just a week later, he lit up the Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid, first with a dazzling display in London, then a goal in the return leg at the Bernabéu.
Losing him again now — and especially to an ankle injury — would be a cruel twist in what has already been an emotionally draining campaign for both the club and player.
“I do worry,” Mikel Arteta admitted. “Especially with the numbers we have right now. And when these tackles come with your back to goal — normally that’s when your foot is planted, your weight’s down, and you can’t really do anything about it.”
Red Card, Red Flags
Referee Michael Oliver didn’t hesitate with his decision. The tackle may not have had malicious intent, but it ticked every box in the modern rulebook for a sending-off. High. Late. From behind. And on one of the Premier League’s most talented attackers, no less.
Still, Mikel Arteta was careful not to incite any controversy.
“The referee made a decision, that is clear,” he said plainly, not looking to stir the pot.
That decision certainly helped Arsenal gain more control in the second half, turning a 2-0 lead into a commanding 4-0 win. But the bigger picture is, of course, whether their No. 7 will be available for the challenges ahead.
Champions League Dreams Still Alive
With Liverpool in the driver’s seat to claim this season’s Premier League title — and possibly wrapping it up as early as Wednesday if Arsenal stumble against Crystal Palace — there’s a looming sense of déjà vu in north London. Another near miss in the league, another summer of what-ifs.
But unlike in previous seasons, the Gunners still have something major to play for: the Champions League. A semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain awaits, and Bukayo Saka will be absolutely vital if they are to make it to Wembley in June.
His explosive runs, sharp link-up play with Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Jesus, and clutch goal-scoring have made him arguably the most important player in Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup. A Saka-less Arsenal would be a very different — and less dangerous — proposition for PSG.
Mikel Arteta’s Calmness Could Be a Sign
In recent months, Mikel Arteta hasn’t been shy about expressing frustration when things go against his side — refereeing decisions, fixture congestion, or injuries. So the fact that he was so composed in the aftermath of this one suggests that perhaps Saka’s withdrawal was more precaution than crisis.
Maybe this is the benefit of experience speaking. Or perhaps it’s trust in his medical team, who have worked closely with Saka throughout the season. Either way, Mikel Arteta’s body language didn’t scream panic — and that’s something Arsenal fans will cling to.
Looking Ahead: Manage the Minutes, Maximise the Moment
With the PSG semi-final on the horizon and a tricky run-in domestically, Arsenal can’t afford to push Saka too hard. Managing his minutes will be key — both for his fitness and their tactical balance.
Whether he starts against Palace will depend on how he responds in the coming days. But even if he doesn’t, the focus will be getting him 100% fit for Europe.
Saka’s journey this season has been one of resilience. From long-term injury to heroic comeback, he’s shown time and again that he thrives on big occasions. Now, Arsenal just have to make sure he’s there when the next big one rolls around.
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