Arteta Reveals Reasons for Saka’s Dip in Form: Injuries, Relentless Schedule, and Constant Changes

Mikel Arteta has pointed to two key factors behind Bukayo Saka’s recent dip in form for Arsenal: injuries disrupting attacking partnerships and a relentless schedule. Saka was substituted after an hour against Bayer Leverkusen following a poor performance where he regularly gave the ball away, in contrast to replacement Noni Madueke who won the decisive penalty. Arteta explained: “We have changed that [attacking] unit a lot, much more than in recent years.

The amount of games and minutes he’s played now, it’s a bit more already than the whole of last season. We also just have to understand the demands we’re putting on players.” Saka’s goal against Wolves last month ended a 15-game drought, but he has only scored two goals and assisted three in his last 21 appearances across all competitions. Arteta insisted: “We fully trust him and love him. What he’s doing for us, for this club, is just incredible at his age.”

Key Points

Arteta cites disrupted attacking partnerships and relentless schedule for Saka’s form dip.
Saka replaced after poor Leverkusen display; Madueke impressed.
Goal against Wolves ended 15-game drought.
Only 2 goals, 3 assists in last 21 appearances.
Arteta insists club fully trusts and loves Saka.

Even stars have slumps, Arteta defends Saka, blaming injuries, fatigue, and a schedule that never rests, while insisting the winger remains “incredible.”

Sources: The Standard Interview