Arsenal’s Premier League campaign took an uneasy turn this weekend as Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, two of the club’s most influential players, were both forced off during the hard-fought clash against Leeds United. While the Gunners secured the result they needed, the sight of their star duo limping away sent shivers through the Emirates faithful, especially with a title-defining showdown against Liverpool looming next weekend.
The timing of these knocks couldn’t have been worse for Mikel Arteta, who has relied heavily on both Saka and Ødegaard to drive Arsenal’s resurgence this season. As the squad prepares for perhaps their biggest test yet, the uncertainty over their fitness raises both tactical and psychological questions about how the team will approach the upcoming match at Anfield.
Saka’s Setback The Relentless Winger Under Strain
Bukayo Saka has become almost synonymous with Arsenal’s modern identity. The Hale End graduate embodies the club’s philosophy of developing young talent into world-class performers. His dazzling dribbles, quick feet, and unrelenting determination have turned him into one of the Premier League’s most dangerous wide players. Yet, with that responsibility has come immense physical demand.
Against Leeds, Saka once again started brightly, terrorizing the opposition defense with his movement down the right flank. But midway through the second half, he pulled up, wincing and signaling discomfort to the medical staff. Arteta wasted no time in substituting him, a decision that felt as much precautionary as it was necessary.
The concern for Arsenal is that Saka has already been playing through heavy minutes. Rarely rested, he has shouldered the dual burden of Premier League and Champions League commitments. Fatigue, as well as minor knocks that have accumulated over weeks, might finally be catching up with him.
With Liverpool’s high-pressing full-backs and relentless energy, Arsenal will desperately want their star winger fit and firing. His pace and creativity are not easily replaceable, and should he miss the clash, Arteta may have to reshuffle his frontline significantly.
Ødegaard’s Ordeal Captain’s Influence in Jeopardy
If Saka represents Arsenal’s youthful exuberance, Martin Ødegaard is the calm orchestrator who makes everything click. The Norwegian midfielder has been central to Arsenal’s tactical structure, dictating tempo, finding gaps, and linking play between midfield and attack. His vision and leadership as captain have elevated the Gunners into genuine contenders.
So when Ødegaard went down clutching his ankle late in the Leeds game, there was a collective intake of breath from the Arsenal bench and traveling fans. Although he tried to carry on, the swelling and discomfort became too much, and Arteta had no choice but to take him off.
Initial reports suggest the injury is not a severe ligament issue, but ankle problems are notoriously tricky. Even a minor sprain can reduce mobility and sharpness, attributes that Ødegaard relies on heavily in tight spaces. Facing a Liverpool midfield led by the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai requires agility and quick decision-making—qualities that may be diminished if Ødegaard is not fully fit.
Arteta’s Dilemma Tactical Options Without His Stars
The potential absence of both Saka and Ødegaard presents Mikel Arteta with a conundrum. Arsenal’s tactical fluidity has often hinged on their contributions. Without them, the team risks losing not only creativity but also balance.
One option could be deploying Emile Smith Rowe in a central attacking role. The academy graduate has shown glimpses of his old form after recovering from long-term injuries. His ability to drive at defenders and play incisive passes could offer Arsenal a different dimension.
On the wings, Leandro Trossard or Reiss Nelson might be tasked with stepping up in Saka’s absence. While both are capable, neither possesses the same consistency or match-winning spark as the England international. Nelson, in particular, has often been used as a super-sub rather than a starter.
Another potential tweak could involve pushing Kai Havertz further forward, especially if Arteta opts for a more physical presence to disrupt Liverpool’s midfield. While Havertz has been inconsistent, he has a knack for arriving in the box at crucial moments, something Arsenal may need if creativity is lacking.
Liverpool Looms A Clash That Could Shape the Title Race
The magnitude of the upcoming fixture against Liverpool cannot be overstated. Jurgen Klopp’s side has been in relentless form, combining their traditional intensity with newfound depth in midfield. Matches between these two have often been season-defining, and this one feels no different.
For Arsenal, the trip to Anfield has historically been a daunting challenge. The atmosphere, the pressing, and Liverpool’s ability to punish even the slightest lapse have often undone visiting teams. To go there without Saka and Ødegaard would be akin to climbing Everest without oxygen.
Yet, adversity sometimes brings resilience. Arteta will undoubtedly rally his players around the idea of collective responsibility. Should Saka and Ødegaard miss out, others will have to rise to the occasion. Matches like these often create unexpected heroes.
Squad Depth Tested Can Arsenal Cope
One of the criticisms leveled at Arsenal in recent years has been their lack of depth compared to rivals like Manchester City. This season, however, Arteta has worked with the board to bolster key positions. The arrival of Declan Rice, for instance, has provided midfield steel, while Trossard and Jorginho add valuable experience off the bench.
The test now is whether these reinforcements can bridge the gap if first-choice stars are sidelined. Depth is not just about numbers; it’s about players being able to deliver consistently in high-pressure scenarios. The Liverpool match will be the litmus test of how far Arsenal have come in that regard.
Psychological Impact Fear of Anfield and the Injury Shadow
Beyond the tactical and physical dimensions lies the psychological battle. Anfield has long been a fortress where Arsenal have struggled. The memories of heavy defeats in the past still linger among both players and fans. Going there without two of their leaders could plant seeds of doubt.
However, Arsenal’s recent performances suggest a growing maturity. The squad no longer crumbles under pressure as easily as in previous seasons. Declan Rice, Gabriel Jesus, and William Saliba have brought a winning mentality that can steady the ship even in turbulent waters.
Still, the psychological shadow of injuries looms large. When key players are missing, the rest of the team sometimes plays with added caution, subconsciously adjusting their game. Arteta will need to ensure that doesn’t happen. Instead, he must instill belief that Arsenal can still impose themselves.
Opponent Watch Liverpool’s Perspective
From Liverpool’s point of view, the potential absence of Saka and Ødegaard is undoubtedly welcome news. Klopp thrives on exploiting weaknesses, and without those two, Arsenal lose much of their attacking unpredictability.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, often criticized for his defensive vulnerabilities, may find life easier without Saka targeting his flank. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s midfield could gain more control without Ødegaard’s probing passes.
That said, Klopp will warn his players against complacency. Arsenal still possess quality across the pitch, and underestimating them would be dangerous. Matches of this magnitude often defy form and logic.
Also Read:
