Arteta reveals whether Saka and Odegaard will play in Arsenal’s game against Shakhtar Donetsk

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the fitness of key players Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal, currently third in the Premier League table with 17 points after eight games, are looking to bounce back from a 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth and are hoping for the return of two of their star players.

Speaking to Standard Sport, Arteta revealed that while Ødegaard is still not fully fit, there is optimism regarding Saka’s potential involvement. “They are closer. They are both progressing really well. Martin is still not fit. Let’s see how Bukayo is after the training session later on,” Arteta said.

Ødegaard, Arsenal’s captain and creative force, has been sidelined with a lingering injury, and his absence has been felt in the Gunners’ recent performances. Despite his recovery progressing, Arteta confirmed that the Norwegian midfielder will not be ready in time for the Shakhtar match. Meanwhile, Saka, who has been managing fitness concerns of his own, could yet make an appearance if he passes a late fitness test after Arsenal’s final training session.

With a busy schedule ahead, including a high-profile Premier League match against league leaders Liverpool, Arteta will be carefully managing his squad’s fitness to avoid further injuries. Both Ødegaard and Saka are vital to Arsenal’s ambitions this season, and their availability could prove crucial in the Gunners’ Champions League campaign and their bid to challenge for the Premier League title.

Arsenal will be hoping that Saka, in particular, can recover in time to add much-needed attacking firepower as they look to get back to winning ways on Tuesday night.