Arteta Clarifies Saka Substitution, Confirms No New Injuries for Arsenal
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dismissed concerns over a fresh injury to Bukayo Saka, revealing the winger’s early removal during their Carabao Cup victory over Port Vale was planned, and that no new muscular issues have emerged.
Arsenal booked their place in the fourth round with a 2-0 win over the League One side, with Eberechi Eze and Leandro Trossard finding the net. Saka, who started the fixture, was taken off early in the second half following a heavy tackle. The substitution led to speculation among supporters and media that Saka might have sustained a knock or relapse.
However, Arteta insisted that the move was part of the game plan. “It was planned, 60 minutes was the maximum,” he said. “We had four, almost five players already in the line-up that we had to get him out for … especially for load, because he was coming from long periods out.” The manager added that the positive outcome was that no one left the pitch with muscular issues.
Saka had just recently returned from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for several matches. His fitness and playing time were under close management, and Arteta had earlier noted Saka’s desire to get back into competitive rhythm.
Arsenal made widespread changes to their lineup for this cup tie, nine in total, yet still fielded a strong XI, including the returning Saka. Despite being substituted, he was among those trusted to help the Gunners advance.
With Saka’s status now confirmed as stable, Arteta and his staff can turn their attention back to upcoming Premier League challenges, confident that their squad is not further weakened by fresh injuries.