Arsenal fans, breathe. Saka is back—and just in time for a Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid. Coincidence? We think not.
After three months on the sidelines with a hamstring that likely had more scans than a barcoded economy, Bukayo Saka is finally easing his way back into Arsenal’s frontline. He got 30 minutes against Fulham, then 49 against Everton. That’s 79 minutes of Saka-light—just enough to remind us what we’ve missed but not quite enough to guarantee he’s match-fit.
Still, should Saka start against Real Madrid? Short answer: yes. Long answer? Are you nuts? Of course he should.
Why Saka Starts: Arsenal Need Their Spark Plug
Let’s face it, Arsenal without Saka is like a Shakespeare play without soliloquies—technically sound, but lacking soul. He doesn’t just hug the right touchline; he owns it. Against a Real Madrid side that still reeks of Champions League pedigree, you need your best weapons on the pitch. He is that weapon. Not a Swiss Army knife. A lightsaber.
The Risk of Saka Starting: A Gamble Worth Taking?
Sure, it’s a gamble. We can’t predict anything for sure. He hasn’t played a full 90 since winter jackets were still fashionable. But this is the great Champions League. Not the Carabao Cup against Cheltenham. You don’t save your best player for later—you use him now or risk never needing him later.
Him vs Madrid: One Man, One Mission
Let’s not kid ourselves—if Arsenal wants to take a lead at the Bernabéu, Saka has to be on that team sheet. Will he tire out? Possibly. Will he change the game in 30 minutes? Probably. Will he give Dani Carvajal flashbacks for weeks? Definitely.
He is in a “much better place,” said Arteta. Let’s hope that place is somewhere near Madrid’s penalty box.
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