With Arsenal looking to build and gain momentum after their emphatic win over Crystal Palace, Mikel Arteta faced questions from the journos ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Ipswich Town.
As expected, the Arsenal boss was asked about the availability of his star player, Bukayo Saka.
It’s not looking good. He’s going to be out for many weeks. Many. I cannot be too specific because I don’t know, but it will be many weeks.
Yes it’s a huge one. Obviously he’s a big player for us. You just have to see the impact that he has on the team, but it’s going to be a really good exercise for all of us to think about ways to overcome another challenge, because we’ve already had a lot in the season.
Losing a key player like Saka is a huge blow for the Gunners and we have considered the alternatives, but it’s even worse with the fact that Arteta confirmed that Raheem Sterling will also not be available to play Ipswich.
When asked on whether he would be seeking to sign some players in the January winter transfer window, Arteta confirmed that his short-term solution would be to use the players in his disposal rather than seek new toys elsewhere.
He was also proud of Gabriel Jesus return to good form, and hopes it can continue consistently. After scoring one goal in his last 33 games, Jesus has smashed in five goals in two, which is rather incredible, but what matters at this point is for the Brazilian to keep this form. Arteta had a couple of questions regarding the grueling fixture schedule, but he doesn’t have any control over it.
There will be a lot of Premier League action today with Arsenal taking on Ipswich tomorrow, and we can only hope for three points to continue the dwindling title charge because Liverpool will be expected to smash Leicester to bits tonight.
