Arsenal’s promising start to the 2025/26 season has been overshadowed by fresh injury concerns, with Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard both forced off during the Gunners’ emphatic 5-0 victory over Leeds at the Emirates.
Mikel Arteta’s side entered the campaign with high hopes after finishing second in the Premier League and reaching the Champions League semifinals last season despite persistent injury problems. Fans had been optimistic that better fitness luck could push the Gunners to silverware — but just two games in, Arteta is already counting losses.
Kai Havertz is sidelined with a knee issue, and now Saka and Ødegaard join the growing list of worries. Saka pulled up early in the second half after a sharp sprint, immediately clutching his left hamstring before limping off the pitch. Ødegaard, meanwhile, exited before halftime holding his shoulder, replaced by teenager Ethan Nwaneri.
Speaking after the match, Arteta confirmed the worst fears: “With Bukayo, while he was carrying the ball, he felt something in his hamstring. I haven’t spoken to the doctor yet, but for Bukayo to come off, it’s significant.”
While the extent of Saka’s injury is still unknown, early signs suggest another hamstring strain. Recovery timelines can range from two weeks for a minor strain to three months if surgery is required — a nightmare scenario for Arsenal given Saka’s importance and his history of muscle problems.
The England winger has battled similar issues multiple times in recent seasons, most notably missing three months last winter after undergoing surgery. With his injury record growing, managing his workload will be crucial if Arsenal hope to compete on all fronts.
The potential arrival of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace now looks even more vital. The versatile midfielder chose Arsenal over Tottenham and could provide much-needed creativity and depth while Arteta’s key men recover.
For now, Arsenal fans can only hope that Saka’s setback proves to be minor. But with Havertz, Ødegaard, and now Saka on the treatment table, the Gunners’ early-season momentum already faces a serious test.
-Deeprows Sports
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