Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is counting on Gabriel Martinelli to step up and fill the void left by Bukayo Saka’s absence due to a hamstring injury. Saka, a key figure in Arsenal’s attack, is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, potentially missing crucial matches, including the north London derby against Tottenham on January 15.
Arteta confirmed on Monday that Saka suffered the injury during the first half of Arsenal‘s win against Crystal Palace. The England winger’s recovery timeline means he will also miss the first leg of the Carabao Cup semifinal against Newcastle and an FA Cup third-round clash with Manchester United.
Martinelli, who switched flanks after Saka‘s departure at Palace, is likely to take on a more prominent role in the team. The Brazilian contributed a goal and an assist in that game and is expected to start on the right when Arsenal host Ipswich on Friday. Although Martinelli’s goal tally in the Premier League has dropped from 15 in the 2022-23 season to 10, Arteta remains confident in the forward’s ability to deliver in Saka’s absence.
Arteta agreed when asked if Martinelli could rise to the occasion:
“I think so. Gaby loves it: you give him a challenge, and he wants to do it today if he can. He’s a player that likes responsibility and having a bigger role. But it’s not just about him; it’s something collective. Everyone needs to add a little extra because Bukayo, who we rely on a lot, is not going to be with us.”
The timing of Saka‘s injury coincides with another setback for Arsenal, as Raheem Sterling, on loan from Chelsea as backup for Saka, is also facing a prolonged absence due to a knee injury. Sterling is undergoing further tests to determine the severity of the problem.
Arteta has, however, dismissed the possibility of making reinforcements in the January transfer window. The manager pointed to Gabriel Jesus’s recent return to form, with the Brazilian striker scoring five goals in his last two matches, as a reason for optimism.
