Saka has picked up a hamstring injury and is said to be out for several weeks. Arsenal fans are anxious about the situation as the key player of the team is out. The only current backup for the player is Raheem Sterling.
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Impact of Saka’s absence
This season so far, Saka missed just one game against Bournemouth, and they lost the match. Being the main player in the team, the player controls many aspects of the game, including creativity and tempo control, and also helps in defense.
When Odegaard was out for 7 continuous games, Arsenal lost just 2 of those, but in Saka’s case the scenario may be different. In the midfield the team has got other players to combine like Merino, Partey, Rice, Havertz, and Jorginho, but in attack the numbers are less.
The impact of Saka’s absence may be severe. It can range from losing crucial games and getting far away from the top 2 to fighting for a spot in the top 4.
Bukayo Saka this season has 22 G/A in just 24 games in all competitions. The team was dependent on him to a certain extent; this could also be seen as a blessing in disguise. The team became a bit predictable, as majorly the attacks were initiated from Saka’s side; more centrally created play will be seen from the team now.
Arsenal’s plan
The manager, Arteta, when asked about the Saka situation, says, “I’m putting some ideas together; we will be doing new things as we did when Ødegaard was out.” Also adding to it, he said, “Gabi has played there, Nwaneri and Trossard… Also, Havertz can play there. We will talk internally and see what the best solution is.”
As the manager said, they have players to play in that position, but fans demand game time for Ethan Nwaneri. He is an Arsenal academy player who was recently promoted to the main team due to his high potential. Till date, Ethan has made 10 appearances and scored once. On the right-hand side of the pitch, this player can be the guy to create chances whenever needed.
Raheem Sterling is another name in the mix; he was signed in the last summer transfer window by Arsenal as a backup for attacking positions. This is the time for him; after having a decent career at Man City and Chelsea, this is his time to prove himself again at Arsenal. Although Raheem has only got 11 appearances this season, the Gunners want him to show his experience and lead the attack in the next few games.
Gabriel Jesus’s form is also pivotal for the Gunners as they need goals. Saka has been their main man in scoring goals, but now in his absence, Jesus has to take the responsibility. The player has picked up decent form in the last few games as he scored a hat trick in the EFL Cup match and a brace in a PL game against Crystal Palace.
