Huge Arsenal boost as Arteta provides major injury update

Ahead of Arsenal’s biggest game of the season, Mikel Arteta has suggested his side could be set to receive a welcome bit of news.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has stated Bukayo Saka is “in contention” to play against Manchester City on Sunday.

Saka suffered an injury during the midweek Champions League defeat to Lens. Yet, with the 22-year-old chasing an 88th consecutive Premier League appearance, Arteta is hopeful that he will be fit.

“Bukayo is in contention,” the Gunners boss confirmed during a press conference on Friday.

“Let’s see how he recovers [from here to Sunday].”

Saka is an integral part of the Arsenal squad, with four goals and two assists in seven Premier League games this season. He has also scored in both of the club’s last two league games against City at the Emirates.

The extent of the winger’s injury will determine his availability for the international break. Gareth Southgate has called him up. The England manager is set to keep a close watch on how things unfold this weekend.

Asked for specific details of Saka’s injury, Arteta replied: “I leave that to the doctors. I’m not a doctor. That’s what they told me [— that he’s fit].”

Partey is also making good progress

Besides the Saka update, Arteta shared positive news about midfielder Thomas Partey, who missed five matches due to a groin injury.

Partey has made progress in his recovery and was named on the bench for the Lens game.

“Thomas is ahead of schedule,” Arteta revealed.

“We wanted to have him in the squad if we needed to, and he will be in the squad tomorrow.”

Arsenal are currently third in the Premier League with 17 points from seven games (W5 D2). They will face league leaders City, who have 18 points from seven games (W6 L1).

The clash between these two top teams promises to be a crucial fixture, and Arteta’s hope for Saka’s inclusion adds an element of anticipation to the showdown.