Bukayo Saka Injury Update, What Happened to Bukayo Saka?
by Mathelene
Updated Jun 20, 2023
Who is Bukayo Saka?
Bukayo Ayoyinka Temidayo Saka is a talented English professional footballer who currently plays for Arsenal in the Premier League and represents the England national team. He was born on September 5, 2001. Saka is renowned for his versatility, as he can operate as a right winger, midfielder, or full-back.
His exceptional skills, particularly in attacking and creating scoring opportunities, have garnered him recognition as one of the finest young footballers in the world and one of the top right wingers in the game. Saka has remained loyal to Arsenal throughout his career, contributing significantly to the team's success.
He has already won an FA Cup and an FA Community Shield with the club, establishing himself as one of their most productive and influential players. In recognition of his outstanding performances, Saka was named Arsenal's player of the season for both the 2020-21 and 2021-22 campaigns.
Having represented England at various youth levels, Saka made his debut for the senior national team in October 2020. He was also included in England's squad for the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament and represented his country in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, demonstrating his progression to the international stage.
Bukayo Saka Injury Update
Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national team, has reassured fans that Bukayo Saka is doing well after sustaining a knock during the Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta on June 16. Saka made an impact early in the match by delivering a cross that was inadvertently deflected into the net by Malta defender Ferdinando Apap. However, he was on the receiving end of a painful tackle in the penalty box and was subsequently substituted at halftime, with Phil Foden taking his place.
Despite concerns about Saka's fitness, Southgate clarified that the decision to replace him was purely precautionary and that the injury is not serious. He stated, "He's good. We just didn't want to take a chance with him given the scoreline." England comfortably won the game 4-0, with goals from Apap (own goal), Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harry Kane, and Callum Wilson.
Looking ahead, England will face North Macedonia in their upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers on Monday, and Saka is expected to be in contention for a starting position. The 21-year-old winger had an impressive season with Arsenal, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists in 38 league games, although his team narrowly missed out on the Premier League title after leading the standings for 248 days.
What Happened Bukayo Saka?
Bukayo Saka played a crucial role in England's victory, as his well-placed cross led to the own goal by Malta defender Ferdinando Apap, giving the Three Lions an early lead. The team continued to dominate the match, with goals from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harry Kane, and Callum Wilson, resulting in a convincing 4-0 win.
Unfortunately, Saka's impressive performance was cut short when he suffered an ankle injury following a challenge from a Maltese defender. As a precautionary measure, Gareth Southgate made the decision to substitute him immediately after halftime. However, the England manager provided reassurance that the injury is not severe and that Saka is not facing any serious setbacks.
Despite the substitution, England maintained their dominance and secured a comfortable victory. Looking ahead, Southgate's confirmation of Saka's injury being minor indicates that the talented Arsenal winger should be available for future matches, including the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers against North Macedonia.
Saka's contribution to the England team is highly valued, reflecting his exceptional form for Arsenal during the season. With 14 goals and 11 assists in 38 league appearances, he played a significant role in Arsenal's campaign, even though the team fell short of winning the Premier League title after leading the standings for a substantial period of time.
Why is Saka Not Playing for Arsenal Tonight?
During the match against Malta, Bukayo Saka displayed signs of discomfort after enduring a strong challenge from a Maltese defender. As a result, he was substituted at halftime, making way for Manchester City's Phil Foden to enter the game. Gareth Southgate, the England manager, emphasized that the choice to withdraw Saka from the match was purely precautionary.
Southgate further expressed his confidence in having the 21-year-old Arsenal player fit and ready for the upcoming qualifier against North Macedonia on Monday. Southgate's decision to replace Saka was primarily driven by a desire to ensure the winger's well-being and avoid exacerbating any potential injury.
The England manager's reassurances suggest that Saka's condition is not a cause for significant concern and that he is expected to be available for selection in the crucial upcoming fixture against North Macedonia.
Bukayo Saka Injury Update - FAQs
Yes, he suffered an ankle injury following a challenge from a Maltese defender.
Bukayo Saka has returned to Arsenal training after his break following the European Championships.
Bukayo Saka primarily plays as a right winger but can also operate as a midfielder or full-back.
Yes, Saka has won an FA Cup and an FA Community Shield with Arsenal.
Saka represents the England national team.