Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains optimistic that Bukayo Saka could return in time for the Gunners’ crucial Premier League clash against Brentford as the North London side look to maintain their advantage at the summit of the table.
With the title race intensifying, the potential return of the influential winger offers a timely lift for a team chasing a first league crown in two decades.
Arsenal currently hold a six-point lead at the top, although that margin could have been even wider had Manchester City not staged a dramatic comeback to beat Liverpool last weekend.
The Gunners travel across London on Thursday determined to complete a league double over Brentford following their 2-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium in December. With City set to play before them, Arteta’s men are fully aware of the importance of securing maximum points to keep their championship momentum intact.
Providing updates on his squad, Arteta first addressed the situation of summer signing Mikel Merino, who recently underwent foot surgery. The Spaniard confirmed that the procedure went according to plan but acknowledged the midfielder faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
“I think the doctors were really happy with the way (the surgery) went,” Arteta explained.
“Now it’s the start of obviously a long process, we’re talking about bone healing. So, we’ll respect the timings, and I’m sure he’s going to do everything he possibly can to speed up that recovery.
“The timeframes, we’re talking about months – whether it’s three, four or five, we don’t know.”
However, the spotlight quickly shifted to Saka, whose absence has been keenly felt since he suffered a hip injury during the warm-up ahead of Arsenal’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Leeds. Arteta also delivered updates on captain Martin Odegaard and forward Leandro Trossard, both of whom are being monitored closely.
“(Bukayo, Martin and Leandro), we will see,” he said.
“Max is still not available. However, he’s doing very well.
“I think he will be with us in a week or so, and then he can pick up the rhythm and be available for us.”
Arsenal’s attacking fluency has remained impressive in recent weeks, yet Saka’s creativity and goal threat remain central to their tactical identity. His possible return could provide a decisive edge against a Brentford side known for its resilience and physical approach.
With Manchester City aiming to close the gap when they host Fulham, the stakes could hardly be higher. Victory at the Gtech Community Stadium would reinforce Arsenal’s title credentials and keep the pressure firmly on their closest challengers as the season approaches its decisive phase.
