Saka's condition: Arteta addresses injury concerns!

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka did not suffer a serious injury after limping off during their 4-0 win at Ipswich Town, easing concerns ahead of their crucial Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Saka was left sore following a reckless first-half challenge by Leif Davis, which saw the Ipswich defender shown a straight red card. But Arteta assured reporters after the match that the England international is expected to be fit for the European tie.

“He was a bit sore, but it’s nothing serious, so it’s good,” said Arteta. The winger, who played a key role in two of Arsenal’s four goals, was substituted in the second half as part of several planned changes with an eye on squad freshness.

Arsenal dominated the contest, scoring twice before Davis’ early dismissal and adding two more in the second half without ever looking threatened. Arteta praised the intensity of the performance, calling the first 35 minutes one of their best spells of the season.

“We were really dominant,” he said. “The understanding of what we had to do was clear, and we started with a very high level of intensity.”

Leandro Trossard, who scored twice, is also under consideration for the clash against PSG. Arteta highlighted the Belgian’s versatility and the importance of players being able to adapt, especially with Thomas Partey suspended for the first leg.

“We have to make adjustments, not because of PSG, but because of our current situation with numbers,” he explained. “The good thing is the players are willing to play. They like the rhythm.”

Arsenal will have a short break after their next match, offering an opportunity for rest and recovery. Arteta suggested that with no Premier League game at the weekend, his selection for their midweek fixture will reflect both freshness and rhythm.

Ben White, Martin Odegaard and Saka all started together for the first time since November. Arteta welcomed the trio’s return to the same starting eleven, particularly praising White for his strong display after a stop-start season.

As for Saka’s role in the match, Arteta remained full of praise despite the forward not getting on the scoresheet. “He didn’t score, but he contributed to a few goals. He was very good, as was Martin.”

With a midweek clash against Crystal Palace still to come before their Champions League semi-final next week, Arsenal appear to be in strong physical shape, with Arteta cautiously optimistic and focused on managing his squad carefully in the days ahead.

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