Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an encouraging update regarding the condition of star winger Bukayo Saka, following the youngster’s injury scare during the Gunners’ emphatic 4-0 Premier League win over Ipswich Town on Sunday afternoon.

The England international, who only recently returned to first-team action after a prolonged three-month absence with a hamstring injury, was forced off in the second half after a heavy challenge from Ipswich full-back Leif Davis. The reckless tackle saw Davis’ studs rake down the back of Saka’s heels, leaving the Emirates crowd holding its breath as the winger received medical attention on the pitch.

Referee Anthony Taylor wasted no time in brandishing a straight red card for Davis, as Saka was later seen sitting on the bench with an ice pack strapped to his foot. The sight immediately raised concerns among Arsenal supporters, particularly with a critical run of fixtures ahead, including a league clash against Crystal Palace on Wednesday and a vital UEFA Champions League semifinal first leg against Paris Saint-Germain on April 29.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Arteta sought to ease worries, confirming that while Saka was in discomfort, the initial prognosis was positive. “He’s in a bit of pain,” Arteta admitted. “But thankfully it doesn’t look like anything too serious. The medical team will assess him in the next 24 to 48 hours, but at this stage, we’re optimistic.”

Arteta acknowledged that Saka might require close monitoring over the coming days, but suggested there’s currently no major concern over his availability for the upcoming fixtures. “I didn’t see the tackle clearly from where I was, but the referee made the right decision. We’ll see how Bukayo responds to treatment, but he’s a strong boy and we hope to have him back very soon,” the Spaniard added.

Saka had been instrumental in Arsenal’s dominant display against Ipswich, providing an assist before his enforced substitution. The Gunners are now focused on maintaining their momentum as they continue their push for domestic and European glory this season.