'He needs to...' - Mikel Arteta issues advice to Bukayo Saka following his injury

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has encouraged Bukayo Saka to take the necessary time off to recover from his hamstring injury. After undergoing surgery last month, Saka is expected to focus on his rehabilitation, with hopes of returning to action for the Gunners by March.

Saka has been excelling this season for the Gunners, amassing nine goals and 13 assists in 24 matches across all competitions. Saka's absence will certainly be felt by Arsenal in the upcoming matches.

Arteta's advise to Saka

In comments to the press, as reported by The Mirror, Arteta expressed confidence in Saka's ability to return even stronger after taking the necessary time for rest and recovery.

"He needs to get away for a few days and refresh. He needs to. He is obligated to go. With his girlfriend or his family, he can choose. Or on his own. He can still do a lot of things with his rehab because it is the perfect stage. I think it will make him better," said Arteta.

"He is and he has been every single day there. There is a moment, especially when we are going to be away for a few days, that he needs to do that. That is very important for him as well. But we need to look after our players. And he can send me a nice picture—or a present," added Arteta.

Arsenal will host Aston Villa at the Emirates on Saturday, January 18, in an upcoming Premier League match.

The Gunners will benefit from a 10-day break between matches after their recent FA Cup exit to Manchester United. This pause could provide an opportunity for reflection and recovery. 

In the meantime, following Saka’s hamstring tear on December 21, Arteta is also facing the challenge of adapting to Gabriel Jesus's season-ending anterior cruciate ligament injury.

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