Arteta says Bukayo Saka is still weeks away from a return

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka will remain out of action for several weeks. The Arsenal manager shared the update ahead of the club’s Premier League meeting with Hull City, while also praising Arsenal’s growing presence in the England squad: five of the club’s players were called up by Thomas Tuchel despite Saka’s absence.

There is no firm return date for the winger. Arteta said he expected Saka to gradually resume on-pitch activity after the international break, depending on how he feels. “We’re talking about several weeks,” he said, adding that Saka would then start getting back on the pitch and building up his activity. The manager cautioned, however, that his player would remain out for a while.

“I don’t want to put too much pressure on these players; they are doing their best to get fit,” Arteta said. “Bukayo is desperate to be back with the team, but he is still quite far away.” The manager did not set a target date for his return.

Saka’s absence has not stopped Arsenal from having a strong presence among the England players. Arteta described that English core as an important part of the club’s identity. “It’s a real source of pride to have a strong English core in the national team. It is part of our identity, both in the numbers and in the players representing us,” he said, adding that the players involved were happy to be back with the squad.

Ben White is among those recalled. Arteta said he was pleased with White’s performances this season and felt the call-up was deserved. “He has been brilliant and I’m really happy for him,” the manager said, noting that White also seemed happy to have the opportunity.

Arteta was also enthusiastic about Declan Rice’s development, particularly his efforts to add new dimensions to his game and become less predictable. He said Rice was eager to improve every part of his football while maintaining the qualities he had already shown.

Viktor Gyökeres also earned praise from Arteta after an impressive week. The manager highlighted not only the striker’s goals but also the confidence and energy he brought to the team. Before the international break, Arsenal were set to approach their match against Hull with the intention of maintaining their momentum.