Arsenal star Bukayo Saka targeting Real Madrid clash for injury comeback

Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is on track for a return in time for the Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid at the Emirates on Tuesday, April 8.

A comeback would be a significant boost to Mikel Arteta’s European hopes, especially if the England international can make an impact from the bench.

Arsenal hope that Saka makes strong progress over the next 10 days, with the possibility of being available on the bench against Fulham on Tuesday, April 1

The Gunners also face Everton on Saturday, April 5, before the first leg against Real Madrid, providing Saka with a clear target for his recovery.

Saka Sidelined Since Late December

Saka has been sidelined since suffering a torn hamstring in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace in the Premier League on December 21.

After undergoing surgery, his recovery has been expected to take around three months.

Now, nearly three months later, the goal has been for Saka to return to full training after the international break.

While Saka’s England teammates and other international players are away on duty, the 23-year-old will focus on the final stage of his rehabilitation.

His recovery remains dependent on avoiding setbacks, and Arsenal are committed to not rushing his return.

If all goes according to plan, Saka could be back in time for Arsenal’s most crucial games of the season – starting with the home leg against Real Madrid and then the return leg at the Bernabeu eight days later.

Bukayo Saka was the first of a series of major injury setbacks for Arsenal this season, with Gabriel Jesus, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli also enduring extended layoffs.

Martinelli made a surprise return to the bench during Arsenal’s recent match at Manchester United, and now Saka is determined to follow suit.

Arsenal have sorely missed Saka’s creativity, skill, and leadership during a period where they’ve fallen behind in the Premier League title race.

With the Champions League now their best hope for silverware, Arteta will be eager to have his star winger back in action.

Saka’s presence could provide a huge lift for the Gunners as they prepare for their biggest games of the season.