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FC·May 3, 2026 07:23 AM ET

Arteta says Saka is 'back' as pain clears for Arsenal's run-in

Saka returns fresh for Arsenal's title chase.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated May 31 min read
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What happened: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said Bukayo Saka has returned to form at a critical stage of the season, declaring the winger physically and mentally refreshed. "He has come back in the most important period of the season. He is fresh, his mind is fresh," Arteta said. The manager added that the pain that had been restricting Saka is now gone.

Why it matters: Saka's return to full fitness is a significant boost for Arsenal entering the run-in, with the winger one of the squad's most decisive attacking players. Arteta's comments echo earlier remarks that Saka is playing free again as his Achilles pain clears, suggesting the lingering issue that hampered his earlier-season output is no longer a factor. A fully fit Saka materially raises Arsenal's ceiling in the closing weeks.

What to watch: Watch Saka's minutes load and end-product in Arsenal's remaining fixtures to confirm Arteta's read. Any further reference to the Achilles issue in upcoming press conferences would be the first warning sign.

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