Bukayo Saka was forced off in the 10th minute of Bayern München vs Arsenal at the Allianz Arena, and Arsenal lost their winger before the game had really settled. Bukayo Saka was replaced by Eberechi Eze, leaving Mikel Arteta with an immediate concern in a Champions League tie against Bayern München.
Arsenal's early setback
The exact timing has been reported slightly differently, with one account putting it in the ninth minute. The wider point is the same: Saka was taken off early, and SPORT1 reported that he had to be substituted because of an injury without any involvement from an opponent.
That is a problem for Arsenal because Saka has already played seven Premier League matches this season and logged 607 minutes. He has also contributed two Premier League goals and one goal and one assist in the Champions League, so this is not a fringe player being missed. It is one of the attackers Arsenal most rely on.
What Arsenal lose if Saka misses time
The impact may spread beyond one night. Arsenal have five matches in the next 17 days before the November international break, and their next league trip is away to Liverpool in ten days' time. Eberechi Eze has only two Champions League appearances and 151 minutes this season, so he may be asked to do more in Europe than Arsenal initially planned.
Aaron Danks, speaking to So Foot in comments translated from French, said of a separate fitness issue: "He needs rest. It will take as long as it needs to take. Unfortunately, I can't tell you whether it will be tomorrow or in two or three days." Arsenal will hope Saka's wait is shorter than that, but the club now needs clarity quickly with a congested schedule ahead.
Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 5 outlets. How we work →
