Bukayo Saka made his first start since returning from a hamstring injury as Arsenal enjoyed a memorable night under the lights against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Arsenal welcomed the Spanish giants to an electric Emirates Stadium on 8 April and delivered a statement performance, cruising to a 3-0 win in the first leg of their quarter-final tie.
Declan Rice scored two sensational free-kicks in quick succession before Mikel Merino rounded off the night with a composed finish, giving the Gunners a healthy three-goal advantage ahead of their trip to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Saka had a brilliant performance for Arsenal, causing problems down the right for both David Alaba and Jude Bellingham, and was instrumental in the result, winning both of the free-kicks that Rice converted.
After the final whistle, the winger shared a grateful but focused message with fans, acknowledging the result and the support as Arsenal edge closer to a place in the semi-finals.
Bukayo Saka injury scare as Arsenal keep Champions League hopes alive
The 23-year-old shared a message with fans on Instagram, writing: “We asked and you gave us everything, thank you! Same energy in Madrid, job’s not finished!”
His post received plenty of support from teammates, including William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, and goal-scorer Merino, who all liked the message.
However, Saka appeared to be limping when he was substituted in the 74th minute, raising concern among fans—especially as he had only just returned from a three-month layoff with a hamstring injury.
Fortunately for Arsenal, Mikel Arteta quickly moved to ease those fears, confirming post-match that he had not suffered a “serious injury” and was “fine”.
Saka’s absence has been felt in recent months as Arsenal have faltered in the Premier League title race, slipping 11 points behind leaders Liverpool. With the winger contributing 10 goals and 14 assists so far this season, he has proven his importance and his return could not have come at a more crucial time.
| Season statistics | Bukayo Saka |
| Appearances | 27 |
| Goals | 10 |
| Assists | 14 |
Arsenal eye Viktor Gyokeres, Nico Williams and Martin Zubimendi in early summer rebuild
The Gunners are planning for a major summer overhaul, and reports suggest they’re targeting Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres, Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney Arsenal would be “ignorant” not to strengthen the striker position after a season plagued by inconsistency up front, especially in the absence of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
Arsenal fans have pushed for the signing of Gyokeres, though it remains to be seen whether the club will act on their interest.
In the meantime, Arteta will be hoping Saka is fit and available for their upcoming Premier League clash against Brentford on 12 April.
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