🏟️🚨BREAKING NEWS: Mikel Arteta has finally addressed the big question on everyone’s mind — who will take Bukayo Saka’s place

Earlier today, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the press after his team’s recent fixture against Leeds United, where winger Bukayo Saka suffered an unfortunate injury setback.

With a crucial Premier League encounter against Liverpool approaching next week, Arteta revealed that he will be compelled to make changes to his usual starting lineup in response to Saka’s absence.

Arteta acknowledged the significance of losing one of his most influential players at such a decisive point in the campaign. He admitted that the timing of Saka’s injury was far from ideal but emphasized that setbacks of this nature are part of football.

“It’s obviously disappointing to lose Bukayo when he’s been so vital for us,” Arteta remarked. “But this is something every team has to deal with. Injuries happen, and as coaches and players, we must adapt, adjust, and continue finding solutions.”

Despite the concern surrounding Saka’s fitness, the Arsenal boss remained optimistic about the quality and depth within his squad. He stressed that the team would not allow this disruption to derail their momentum. Instead, Arteta highlighted the importance of other players stepping up when called upon.

In particular, the Spaniard confirmed that Noni Madueke would be entrusted with filling Saka’s role in the highly anticipated clash with Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool side. Arteta spoke with confidence about the young winger, praising his attitude and potential. “Noni is someone we trust,” Arteta explained. “He has been working extremely hard in training, showing great qualities, and making the most of his minutes on the pitch. Now he has an opportunity to demonstrate his talent on a stage that couldn’t be bigger.”

Madueke, who joined Arsenal from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven, has already been turning heads with his explosive pace, creativity, and fearless attacking style. Arteta shared that the winger has been adapting well to life at the club, blending into the squad seamlessly, and is ready to take on the responsibility of facing one of Europe’s most competitive teams.

“Our younger players are a huge part of our project and our journey,” Arteta added. “This is exactly the type of occasion where they must step forward and show their character. For Noni, this is a chance to prove himself and contribute at a decisive moment.

Liverpool will pose a massive challenge—they always do—but we know how important every single point is as we continue chasing our targets this season.”

Arteta’s words reflected a mixture of caution and determination: while Saka’s absence is undoubtedly a setback, Arsenal’s manager is confident that his squad has the resilience and depth to handle it, with Madueke now presented with a golden chance to shine.