Huge Arsenal blow as key star ruled out of Chelsea game, return date set

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Ayer 16:00

Arsenal will be without Bukayo Saka for their Carabao Cup semi-final clash against Chelsea, according to The Sun.

The winger is not expected to feature in the second-leg meeting, dealing a blow to manager Mikel Arteta ahead of the tie.

The injury was sustained during training, where the England international was forced to stop early after feeling discomfort.

Medical staff later assessed the issue, and the decision was made to leave him out as a safety measure.

Arsenal chose not to take any risks, especially with a busy run of matches still ahead.

The club are believed to be managing the situation carefully, focusing on a full recovery rather than a rushed return.

Saka has been a key figure for Arsenal this season, offering pace, goals and balance on the right side.

His absence removes one of Arsenal’s most trusted attacking options for the Chelsea meeting.

Saka targeting return for Spurs showdown

The report suggests Saka is expected to remain sidelined until February 22, when Arsenal face Tottenham Hotspur.

That north London derby is seen as a possible return date, assuming his recovery stays on track.

The coaching staff are said to be confident the injury is not serious, but caution remains the priority.

Arsenal have a fairly kind schedule leading into the Spurs match, which helps ease the pressure.

They are not involved in the Champions League play-off rounds during this period, reducing fixture congestion.

This break allows the medical team more time to manage Saka’s workload and healing process.

The club see no need to push him back early, given the games coming up before the derby.

After facing Chelsea tonight, Arsenal return to league action with a home match against Sunderland.

That Premier League clash takes place on Saturday, giving Arteta a chance to rotate his options again.

Following that fixture, the Gunners travel to Brentford next Thursday for another league test.

Arteta has several attacking options available, which could help cover the winger’s absence short term.

The manager has often stressed the importance of squad depth during busy periods of the season.

For now, Arsenal’s attention remains on getting through the next run of games without further issues.