Mikel Arteta has expressed concern over the fitness of Bukayo Saka following Arsenal's frustrating 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Saturday. The winger, who has been a key figure in Arsenal's impressive season, was a surprise omission from the starting lineup, with Arteta later revealing that Saka had been carrying a "niggle" before the game.
Saka was introduced in the second half, replacing Noni Madueke in the 57th minute, and managed to force a save from Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels with a header. However, Arteta's post-match comments have raised concerns about the player's condition, especially with a crucial Champions League tie against Inter Milan and a Premier League clash against Manchester United looming. "Bukayo had a lot of minutes and he had a niggle before the game so we need to manage our players," Arteta stated.
The Arsenal manager's worry is compounded by the Gunners' inability to break down a resolute Nottingham Forest defense, despite having opportunities to extend their lead over Manchester City in the title race. With Liverpool also dropping points, Arsenal missed a golden chance to increase their advantage. The draw means Arsenal are now seven points clear of City and Aston Villa.
Arteta made multiple substitutions in an attempt to inject fresh impetus into his team, including bringing on Saka, Leandro Trossard, Mikel Merino, Eberechi Eze, and Gabriel Jesus. However, these changes failed to unlock the Forest defense, leaving Arteta frustrated with his team's attacking performance. He highlighted missed chances by Gabriel Martinelli, Declan Rice and Saka, and also felt his team was denied a clear penalty.
Adding to Arteta's frustration was a controversial VAR decision, where a potential handball by Nottingham Forest's Ola Aina was not penalized. Arteta believed it was a "clear penalty" due to Aina's "clear intention to keep the ball inside". The VAR explained that the ball had touched Aina's shoulder before his arm, but Arteta was not convinced. “It hits the shoulder and then he takes the ball with his hand," Arteta said. "The explanation is not right, but the rest is ok, but the timing and the intention of the player is very clear. In my opinion it is a very clear penalty".
Arsenal's failure to capitalize on their chances and the controversial penalty decision have further intensified the focus on Saka's fitness. The team's reliance on Saka's creativity and attacking threat is well-known, and any absence would be a significant blow to their title aspirations.
The Gunners have struggled to score in recent matches, having been held goalless in consecutive Premier League games for the first time since 2012. This has raised concerns about their attacking options and their ability to break down stubborn defenses.
Looking ahead, Arteta will be hoping that Saka's "niggle" is not a serious injury and that he will be available for the crucial upcoming games. Arsenal's squad depth will be tested as they navigate a challenging run of fixtures, and Arteta will need all his key players fit and firing if they are to maintain their position at the top of the Premier League.
