Arsenal’s manager Arteta praised Saka’s impressive goal in the 73rd minute after his long-awaited comeback from injury, calling it a “beautiful moment.”
In the same match where Saka scored, the manager also lost center-back Gabriel before their Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid next week.
Gabriel had to leave the game in the first half of Tuesday’s 2-1 victory over Fulham due to a hamstring injury.
This type of injury has been a problem for the Gunners this season, with forward Kai Havertz’s season ending because of a similar issue and Saka missing 101 days.
Arteta’s defensive challenges grew when Netherlands international Jurrien Timber also had to exit the match against Fulham because of a knee injury.
Additionally, Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori were unable to play due to knee problems.
While Arteta worries about their recovery in time for Real Madrid’s first-leg match next Tuesday, Saka eased his manager’s concerns about injuries just seven minutes into his return by scoring a goal that secured three points for an Arsenal team that has missed his skills.
The excitement of seeing the 23-year-old back on the field and scoring was obvious among the fans.
He ran over to celebrate with Sam Wilson, the club’s lead physical performance coach, who played a key role in his recovery.
Arteta shared his thoughts on the celebration after Saka’s goal in the 73rd minute, saying, “it’s a wonderful moment to witness how much our fans love, respect, and admire Bukayo.
“He doesn’t surprise any of us, and his reaction shows that perfectly.
“As soon as he scores, what does he do? He thanks everyone involved in his recovery— the sports science team, the physios, and everyone who contributed to getting him back in shape.
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“He really energized the stadium, and it’s fantastic to have him back.”
Arsenal faced challenges in breaking through defenses, while Saka was out, and things got tougher with season-ending injuries to Havertz and Brazil’s Gabriel Jesus, which hurt their chances for the Premier League title.
Fans have seen their team dominate possession without creating many scoring chances this season, and this trend continued in the first half until makeshift striker Mikel Merino scored the opening goal in the 37th minute.
When Saka’s name was announced, the crowd cheered loudly.
He received a standing ovation during his warm-up and again when he stepped onto the field for the first time since December.
Both Arsenal fans and the club recognize his importance, and with the Champions League being their only remaining trophy option this season, they need him to have any chance of overcoming European champions Real Madrid in the quarter-finals.
