Bukayo Saka of Arsenal receives medical treatment after picking up an injury during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and Arsenal FC (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Opinion: Should Arsenal now rest Bukayo Saka more often?

Originally posted on Just Arsenal | By Admin Martin | Last updated Sep 7, 2025 4:00 AM ET

Bukayo Saka has begun the new season with yet another injury setback, prompting questions over whether he may be becoming an injury-prone player. The winger has been central to Arsenal’s rise in recent years, consistently delivering in attack and carrying a significant share of responsibility for the team’s progress. Losing him for any extended period would represent a major blow for the club.

Saka’s playing style is both dynamic and direct, which frequently exposes him to heavy challenges. This repeated physical treatment has taken its toll, and injuries have become a recurring theme.

Arsenal’s Dependence on Saka

The importance of Saka to Arsenal cannot be overstated. Last season, when he was sidelined by a long-term injury, the Gunners lost momentum in the Premier League title race. His absence coincided with a dip in form from MartinOdegaard, leaving the team without their usual fluency and attacking edge on the right wing.

This season has already begun with Saka unavailable once again, underlining the growing concern about his durability. The risk of him becoming overworked is evident, and managing his fitness must now be a priority for the club.

A Case for Better Rotation

Fortunately for Arsenal, the squad now has greater depth than in previous seasons, with several players capable of filling Saka’s role when required. This gives the club an opportunity to regulate his workload more carefully. It may be wise to avoid playing him in every competition, particularly in the early stages of the campaign.

One option would be to limit his involvement in Champions League group matches, allowing him to focus primarily on the Premier League. Similarly, resting him in domestic cup competitions until the later rounds could help preserve his fitness for decisive fixtures. Such a strategy would reduce the risk of burnout while ensuring he remains available for the games that matter most.

Arsenal’s long-term ambitions rely heavily on Saka’s contributions, but his availability is equally crucial. By protecting him through careful rotation, the club can safeguard one of their most valuable assets while still competing strongly on all fronts.

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This article first appeared on Just Arsenal and was syndicated with permission.

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