Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the injury status of Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli following their premature exits during Monday’s match against Sheffield United. Despite the setbacks, Arsenal comfortably secured a 6-0 victory at Bramall Lane.
Saka was substituted at halftime after displaying signs of discomfort, prompting concerns among fans. Arteta clarified the situation, revealing that Saka was feeling unwell and was subsequently replaced by Fabio Vieira.
“Bukayo was feeling sick and he wasn’t feeling right, so we decided to take him off and bring Fabio in,” Arteta explained after the game.
Shortly after Saka’s departure, Martinelli also left the pitch due to an injury. The Brazilian forward sustained a foot injury while attempting a shot from outside the box. Arteta expressed the need to assess the severity of Martinelli’s injury.
“We had a little issue with Gabi Martinelli. He had a little cut on his foot. We need to see how it is.”
Despite these setbacks, both Saka and Martinelli made significant contributions to Arsenal’s commanding victory. Saka provided an assist for Arsenal’s second goal, while Martinelli found the back of the net with a deflected shot to score the Gunners’ third goal.
In a positive development, Arteta welcomed back Thomas Partey, Gabriel Jesus, and Vieira from their respective long-term injury lay-offs, providing a boost to the squad despite the injury concerns.