Arsenal secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Fulham on Tuesday, but their triumph was overshadowed by fresh injury concerns ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid next week.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Brazilian defender Gabriel was forced off in the first half with a hamstring injury, adding to Arsenal’s growing list of absentees. The Gunners have struggled with similar issues this season, with Kai Havertz sidelined for the rest of the campaign and Bukayo Saka missing 101 days due to injury.
The defensive crisis deepened as Netherlands international Jurrien Timber also had to be substituted with a knee injury, while Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori missed the match due to similar concerns. Manager Mikel Arteta now faces an anxious wait over his squad’s fitness ahead of the high-stakes clash against the reigning European champions.
Saka’s Impact on Arsenal’s Attack
Despite the injury setbacks, Saka marked his long-awaited return in spectacular fashion, scoring the decisive goal just seven minutes after coming on. His strike not only secured three points for Arsenal but also lifted the spirits of the home crowd, who had dearly missed his influence on the pitch.
Following his goal in the 73rd minute, the 23-year-old sprinted to celebrate with Arsenal’s lead physical performance coach Sam Wilson, acknowledging the team’s role in his recovery.
“Yes, I think it was a beautiful moment to see how much our people love, respect, and admire Bukayo,” Arteta said after the match. “Immediately after scoring, he went to thank the sports science team, physios, and everyone involved in his recovery. He lifted the stadium, and it’s great to have him back.”
Saka’s absence had been felt keenly, with Arsenal struggling to break down opposition defenses. In the 16 Premier League matches before his injury, the Gunners netted 34 goals at an average of 2.1 per game. However, in the 13 matches he missed, they managed just 19 goals, averaging 1.5 per game.
Former Brighton striker Glenn Murray emphasized Saka’s importance, telling BBC Radio 5 Live: “It’s clear Arsenal’s struggles in the Premier League coincided with his injury. They rely heavily on him, and his return comes at the perfect time with Real Madrid next week.”
Champions League Hope Still Alive
With their Premier League title hopes fading—despite Tuesday’s win moving them within nine points of leaders Liverpool—Arsenal will now shift their focus to Europe. The Champions League remains their only realistic chance of silverware this season, and Saka’s return could be the boost they need to challenge Real Madrid in the quarter-finals.
As Arteta navigates his squad’s injury crisis, the club will be banking on Saka’s presence to inspire a strong performance on the biggest stage.