Bukayo Saka injury update ahead of Arsenal vs Crystal Palace clash

Mikel Arteta confirms Bukayo Saka could face Crystal Palace despite recent knock, easing injury concerns before PSG showdown.

Arsenal's Bukayo Saka receives medical attention during the Premier League match at Portman Road in Ipswich on April 20, 2025. Photo by John Walton/PA Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka has a strong chance of being available for Wednesday night’s Premier League encounter with Crystal Palace. The Bukayo Saka injury update comes after the winger limped off during Arsenal’s 4-0 victory over Ipswich, sparking fears about his availability for the upcoming Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Saka was substituted in the second half at Portman Road after suffering a knock from a first-half challenge by Leif Davis, which led to the Ipswich defender receiving a red card. Although Saka continued for a brief period, the sight of him limping caused concern among fans and raised speculation about a possible absence in crucial upcoming fixtures.

However, speaking during Tuesday’s press conference, Arteta downplayed the severity of the situation and delivered an optimistic assessment.

“We have to wait and see how he reacts after the training session, but it’s nothing too serious,” Arteta told reporters. “If we want to, I think he would have a good chance to play tomorrow.”

The Bukayo Saka injury news will come as a relief to Arsenal supporters, especially with the north London club preparing for their first Champions League semi-final in 16 years. Despite being 13 points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool and with little left to fight for in the domestic campaign, Arteta suggested that a full-strength team could still take the field against Palace, including Saka.

Arteta not holding back against Palace

When asked about the possibility of rotating his squad to protect players ahead of the Champions League clash with PSG, Arteta made it clear that he intends to field his best available lineup if his players are fit.

“We cannot think in those terms. When the players are fit and available and want to play, they have to play,” Arteta said. “They are at their best when they are playing and they have consistency in their performances. Physically they are good, emotionally they are good, their understanding and rhythm and the way they make decisions is at their best.”

Despite the limited implications of the Palace fixture for Arsenal’s league position, Arteta emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum. Arsenal currently sit second in the Premier League and a win would delay Liverpool’s title celebrations, at least temporarily.

“Our incentive is to win our game and to do our best to continue with our run that we are in right now. The rest we cannot control,” he added.

Eyes on Europe, but focus on Palace

Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final against PSG will mark their first appearance in the final four of Europe’s elite competition since 2009. The Gunners are aiming to make history, having never won the tournament despite past domestic success.

Arteta acknowledged the significance of the European stage but made it clear that focus remains on the immediate task at hand: beating Crystal Palace.

“Let’s take the opportunity first of all. Earn the right to win the game tomorrow against a really good side that have a really good record away from home as well,” Arteta said. “After that, we have time to prepare for the PSG game really well.”

The Arsenal manager also pointed to the benefit of having a short break between the two matches, a rarity in a packed schedule that has seen injuries pile up.

“We have more days. The amount of options that we have is not that many. It’s good to have a little gap because we are really short in numbers,” Arteta explained.

Squad updates: Saka hopeful, Calafiori and Jorginho sidelined

While the Bukayo Saka injury update brings positive news, not all injury reports are as encouraging for the Gunners. Defender Riccardo Calafiori remains unavailable, while midfielder Jorginho is expected to be out for a few weeks.

Arteta admitted that the squad depth remains a concern but expressed confidence in the players who are fit and available.

“It is what we have,” Arteta said. “We’ll make the most of it.”

Should Saka be declared fit, he is expected to feature prominently as Arsenal attempt to end the season strongly. The 22-year-old has been one of the standout performers for the Gunners this season, and his presence will be vital both against Palace and in Europe.

What’s at stake for Arsenal

Although Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes are virtually extinguished, the team has reason to aim for a strong finish. Keeping pressure on Liverpool, preserving second place, and building rhythm for their continental campaign are all priorities.

Arsenal’s last piece of silverware came in 2020 with an FA Cup triumph under Arteta. A Champions League trophy would not only mark a historic achievement but also validate the long-term vision that Arteta and the club’s hierarchy have put into place.

For now, however, all eyes will be on the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night, as the Gunners look to secure another three points and give themselves the best possible preparation for a European showdown with PSG.

And while much of the conversation surrounds the return of Bukayo Saka, Arteta’s remarks reinforce a clear message: Arsenal’s focus remains unwavering, and every match — whether domestic or European — is treated with full seriousness.

With Saka likely to be back in action, Arsenal fans will be hopeful that this week sets the stage for one of the most significant runs in the club’s modern history.