Why Is Bukayo Saka Not Playing Today for Arsenal vs Manchester City?

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Why Is Bukayo Saka Not Playing Today for Arsenal vs Manchester City?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated Apr 19, 2026 10:34 AM ET

Manchester City vs Arsenal today in the Premier League at the Etihad Stadium is widely seen as the Premier League Final, given how both teams are positioned in the league table.

Arsenal is first with 70 points, while Manchester City is on 64 points with a game in hand. The match is crucial for both teams, but Arsenal will have a few disadvantages.

Not only will they play away from home, but they will be without a few first-team players, including Bukayo Saka. The English winger has missed the last four Arsenal matches across the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the Champions League.

Saka's last Arsenal appearance was against Manchester City in the EFL Cup Final last month, where they lost 2-0 at Wembley Stadium.

Bukayo Saka of Arsenal is challenged by Rodri of Manchester City during the Carabao Cup Final match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on March 22, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Mikel Arteta confirmed that Bukayo Saka would miss the Manchester City due to his injury that has kept him out for the last few games. Arteta said, "Unfortunately, Bukayo is out, that's for sure."

Latest Bukayo Saka Injury Update

Bukayo Saka has missed every game for Arsenal in April so far, and the Premier League match against Manchester City marks his fifth game out.

Saka reportedly has an ankle and Achilles issue, which could rule him out until May.

Mikel Arteta hinted that his return could also be sooner than expected, but the manager is not willing to take any risk.

Arteta said, "He's starting to do some stuff, so let's see that progression, how quickly we can go through it, and then wait. But at the moment he’s not available."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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