Emotional scenes as returning hero nets winner for Arsenal

Arsenal’s title hopes had been fading, but Bukayo Saka’s return felt like a revival. The fans had waited three months, and when he stepped onto the pitch in the 66th minute, the Emirates erupted. The script was obvious, and Saka wasted no time in delivering.

Mikel Merino had already put Arsenal ahead in the first half, continuing his impressive spell as an emergency centre-forward. But the night belonged to Saka.

Gabriel Martinelli, electric throughout, set up the moment with a sharp exchange with Merino before picking out Saka with a precise flick. The winger met it with a clinical header and ran straight to the strength and conditioning coach who helped him through his recovery.

Mikel Arteta had been cautious with Saka’s return, resisting the temptation to start him despite the player’s fitness. The manager later spoke about the significance of the moment, saying: “It was a beautiful moment to see how much our people love and respect Bukayo. He lifted the stadium, the energy — great to have him back.”

Fulham had their chances, with Rodrigo Muniz missing a free header before finally pulling one back deep into stoppage time. A late equaliser would have been cruel, but Arsenal held on.

There was a downside to the night, though. Gabriel Magalhaes was forced off early after pulling up while chasing Adama Traoré. Jurrien Timber, still returning to full fitness, also had to be withdrawn.

Arteta admitted concern over their conditions, particularly with crucial games against Everton and Real Madrid ahead. “Gabi felt something in his hamstring,” he said. “We don’t know how big that is. With Jurrien, he was struggling early in the game. He managed to continue, but at some point, he couldn’t.”

Arsenal have coped with injuries all season, yet they remain in contention on multiple fronts. “You see Martinelli today — he was out for three months. Bukayo, four months. Kai, four months. Gabi Jesus, almost the whole season,” Arteta noted. “Yet, we’re still here, giving it a real go.”

Saka’s return, combined with Martinelli’s sharpness, gives Arsenal much-needed attacking impetus ahead of their Champions League quarter-final. Merino’s form as a stand-in forward continues to be a bonus.

The challenge now is navigating defensive setbacks. Jakub Kiwior, who replaced Gabriel, is set for a crucial role in the coming weeks. Arteta remains confident in his squad’s resilience. “Jakub has been very reliable,” he said. “Every time we need him, he’s available. He does his job.”

Arsenal’s season has been defined by adaptation. With Saka back, they have another weapon for the decisive run-in.

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