Saka’s return to Arsenal has breathed new life into the Gunners’ season. The England international marked his comeback with a crucial goal just seven minutes after entering the pitch against Fulham. Manager Mikel Arteta continues to worry about other injuries ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League visit. However, the 23-year-old winger’s return provides a much-needed boost to a team that has clearly missed his creative influence.
The emotional scenes following Saka’s 73rd-minute goal highlighted his importance to the club. In a touching moment, he immediately ran to celebrate with lead physical performance coach Sam Wilson. Wilson had been instrumental in his rehabilitation process.
“Yes, I think a beautiful moment to see how much our people love, respect and admire Bukayo,” Arteta remarked about the celebrations. “He’s not a surprise to any of us and I think the best example is his reaction.”
The manager continued with praise. “Immediately after scoring a goal, what does he do? He goes and says thank you for all the hard work. The sports science guys, physios and everybody involved in the recovery helped him reach this condition. I think he lifted the stadium, the energy and great to have him back.”
Arsenal’s struggles in Saka’s absence have been well-documented. They’ve particularly struggled to break down determined defenses. These difficulties worsened with season-ending injuries to key attacking players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. These injuries severely hampered their Premier League title aspirations.
The first half against Fulham followed a familiar pattern. Arsenal dominated possession without creating clear-cut chances. This continued until makeshift striker Mikel Merino broke the deadlock in the 37th minute. When Saka prepared to enter the match, he received a standing ovation from supporters. They clearly understand his value to the team.
Statistics clearly demonstrate Saka’s impact on Arsenal’s performances. In the 16 Premier League games before his injury, the Gunners averaged 2.1 goals per game. They scored 34 times during this period. During his 13-game absence, this dropped to just 1.5 goals per game with 19 total goals scored.
Their points-per-game ratio also declined from 2.1 to 1.9 without Saka. Expected goals fell significantly from 1.9 to 1.2 per match. Big chances created per game similarly decreased from 3.4 to 2.4 in his absence.
Former Brighton striker Glenn Murray emphasized Saka’s importance on BBC Radio 5 Live. “It’s clear to see Arsenal’s fall away in the Premier League [since his injury]. There is a huge reliance on Saka. While he has been out, they have hugely missed him.”
With the Champions League now representing Arsenal’s only remaining chance for silverware, Saka’s return is perfectly timed. Murray continued: “He is back now and just in time for Real Madrid next week. It’s a huge game and he will have that firmly in his sights.”
The victory over Fulham moved Arsenal within nine points of league leaders Liverpool. The Gunners have played an additional game, though. Still, Saka’s comeback has injected renewed optimism throughout the Emirates Stadium.
“They have seen the Premier League title drifting away from them in recent weeks,” Murray noted. “They’ve not had a number nine and have been without their ‘starboy’ Saka. There feels like there’s been a lift in belief around the Emirates. Even if he is not at full tilt immediately he will bring so much to those around him.”
Murray summed up Saka’s contribution perfectly. “Saka is the difference maker. He just knows where to be, what to do. This time he arrives right on time at the back post to nudge the ball into an empty net.”
As Arsenal prepare for their crucial Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid, Arteta has new hope. Saka’s return could be the catalyst that propels his team past the European champions and deeper into the competition.
