Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed optimism that Bukayo Saka will be fit for the Gunners’ Champions League semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), despite picking up an ankle injury in Sunday’s 4-0 win over Ipswich Town.
Saka was substituted 10 minutes into the second half at Portman Road, following a crude challenge from Ipswich’s Leif Davis late in the first half. The England international continued briefly but was later seen with an ice pack on his right ankle after limping off at full-time.
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Davis was shown a straight red card for the reckless tackle, with VAR upholding referee Chris Kavanagh’s decision, ruling that the defender had “endangered Saka’s safety.”
Arteta plays down injury concerns
Despite the scare, Arteta remains hopeful Saka will be available for the first leg at the Emirates Stadium on April 29.
“I don’t think it was intentional, but it was dangerous,” Arteta said post-match.
“It worries me when players have their backs to the goal, their foot is planted, and they get cut from behind. That’s when serious injuries happen.
But Bukayo was a bit sore, but nothing serious, so that’s good.”
Gunners maintain momentum with dominant win
The injury concern was the only blemish on an otherwise superb outing for Arsenal, who continued their fine form just days after eliminating Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate to reach their first Champions League semi-final since 2009.
Arsenal opened the scoring in the 14th minute through Leandro Trossard, who converted a cross from Saka. Gabriel Martinelli doubled the lead in the 28th minute after Mikel Merino flicked on another Saka delivery.
Trossard added a second goal in 69 minutes of play before Ethan Nwaneri, coming on for Saka, completed the rout with a composed finish in the closing stages.
Arteta praises intensity and control
Arteta lauded his side’s first-half display and the composure shown after Ipswich were reduced to 10 men.
“The first 35 minutes were among the best we’ve played this season,” he said.
“We dominated with high intensity, clarity, and purpose.
After the red card, the dynamic changed, and we controlled the game even more. We added two more goals and made some useful rotations. It was a very positive afternoon.”
Eyes on PSG and Champions League glory
With confidence high and momentum building, Arsenal now shift focus to a crucial semi-final clash with PSG as they chase a maiden UEFA Champions League title.
