What Bukayo Saka was spotted doing after he came off for Arsenal in win over Sevilla
Arsenal moved closer to securing a spot in the Champions League knockout stages after securing a 2-0 win against Sevilla at the Emirates Stadium.
Nonetheless, the Gunners’ almost flawless night was overshadowed by Bukayo Saka being substituted due to an injury.
During the 82nd minute of the game, the Arsenal standout seemed to have landed awkwardly following an aerial challenge, requiring on-field treatment.
Saka attempted to resume play, returning after testing his ankle on the sidelines despite hobbling, but ultimately, he had to be substituted.
Though it’s worrisome to witness the young 22-year-old Arsenal star exiting the field due to injury, journalist James Olley highlighted an “encouraging” aspect of the situation.
Specifically, Saka was seen putting on a coat and observing the final minutes of the game from the bench.
“Obviously impossible to know the extent of his injury,” ESPN’s Olley wrote on X.
“But an encouraging sign for Arsenal that he hasn’t gone straight down the tunnel.”
Next, Simon Collings from the Evening Standard shared a further mildly positive report regarding Saka’s physical condition.
“Saka comes onto pitch at full-time and high-fives some team-mates,” he wrote on X.
“Still limping. Asked by Ben White what issue is, it seems, and points to left foot.
“Good thing is no ice on it and he didn’t go straight down tunnel for treatment.”
While awaiting confirmation from Mikel Arteta, the positive sign was that Saka didn’t immediately head to the tunnel and remained on the field at full time, hopefully indicating that the injury isn’t severe.
Saka has experienced similar incidents earlier this season, likely due to the numerous challenges he faces from opposing players and the significant workload he carries as the Gunners’ key player.
In the current season, Saka has participated in 17 matches for both his club and country. Last season, he featured in 48 Arsenal games across various competitions, according to The Mirror.
Fingers crossed that the injury isn’t serious. It’s also hoped that during the January transfer window, Arteta can recruit someone to help alleviate Saka’s workload.
What Bukayo Saka was spotted doing after he came off for Arsenal in win over Sevilla