Mikel Arteta Discusses Saka and Sterling Injuries, Maintains Optimism

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the media in advance of Friday’s Premier League fixture against Ipswich, scheduled for a 20:15 GMT kick-off. The following are the principal points from his press conference: Bukayo Saka will be unavailable for “many weeks” due to a hamstring injury sustained during the match against Crystal Palace. Arteta stated that Saka “was really emotional and really down” upon confirmation of the tear, but also noted that since he has not previously experienced an injury of this duration, “it is a great learning process for him as well”. Raheem Sterling is similarly sidelined “for weeks” with a knee injury and is scheduled for additional tests on Tuesday. Arteta mentioned he is “putting some ideas together” regarding Saka’s replacement, considering Gabriel Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard, all of whom have played on the right-hand side. Regarding the possibility of Gabriel Martinelli playing on the right, Arteta commented: “He has played there before and he did really well. He scored a goal and created an assist [at the weekend]. It is a good option to have. We are on it.” Arteta indicated that the task of replacing Saka presents a valuable test for him as a coach, and the team is “looking at it with positive energy”. Addressing potential new signings in January, Arteta stated: “The preparation is done. We are ready if something happens. The main focus is on how to unlock the big potential in this squad.” He attributed the current injury crisis affecting all Premier League teams to “a combination of seasons'” schedules, describing the situation as “unsustainable unless we find ways to turn them into physical monsters”. Concerning the upcoming opponents, Ipswich, Arteta remarked: “I have been very impressed. You can tell what they are trying to do and they have been very unfortunate in many games.”