Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka is "ready to go" for Arsenal following a three-month recovery from a hamstring injury. The England forward, 23, who has netted nine goals across all competitions this season, has not played since Arsenal’s 5-1 victory at Crystal Palace on December 21.
"Saka is ready to go," Arteta stated on Monday, ahead of Tuesday’s match against Fulham.
“All the necessary precautions have been taken, so now it’s just about putting him on the pitch at the right moments. He’s eager to get back and is pushing for it.”
Arteta explained that the club had adhered to the initial recovery timeline, even holding Saka back when necessary to ensure his full fitness.
"We have followed the plan carefully, and he is now ready to return," Arteta added.
When asked whether Saka could start against Fulham, who sit eighth in the Premier League, the Arsenal manager responded: "Yes, absolutely."
Arteta praised Saka’s impact on the team, saying: "Bukayo is a massive weapon for us. We know the difference he makes on the pitch and how crucial his contributions are to our success. It's fantastic to have him back."
Arsenal currently sit second in the Premier League, 12 points adrift of leaders Liverpool with just nine games remaining, leaving them realistically out of the title race. However, they are through to the Champions League quarterfinals and will face Real Madrid in the first leg of their tie on April 8.
Saka’s return provides a welcome boost for Arteta, who has been dealing with significant injury absences, including long-term injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
"The energy he brings is invaluable. He’s missed being with the team, playing, training, and competing at the highest level," Arteta explained. "Having him back for the most crucial part of the season is a massive boost for both him and the team."
Though Saka has been sidelined for three months, Arteta emphasized that the forward’s overall record makes the break seem brief.
“He’s been an integral part of the team for the last 48 months, so three months out is just a small fraction of that," Arteta said.
In team news, Arteta confirmed that Jurrien Timber is available after recovering from illness, but fellow defender Riccardo Calafiori will be sidelined following a knee injury sustained while on international duty with Italy.
The Arsenal manager also expressed his confidence in the club’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, whose appointment was officially announced on Sunday. Berta, who previously worked at Atlético Madrid, takes over from Edu.
“We believe he will have a significant impact at the club," Arteta said. "He brings a wealth of experience, a strong personality, charisma, and a winning mentality—qualities that will certainly be contagious throughout the squad."
