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Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka Prepares for Major Clash Against Real Madrid
Bukayo Saka has expressed a sense of mental rejuvenation following a three-month injury layoff and is optimistic about Arsenal’s chances as they gear up to face Real Madrid in their upcoming Champions League quarter-final. Saka, who is anticipated to return to the starting lineup for the first leg on Tuesday, suffered a hamstring rupture in December but has recently made cameo appearances in the team’s last two matches.
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has highlighted Saka’s return as a significant advantage, particularly for what he considers the most critical match of his coaching career, as they aim to overcome the defending champions. Saka has been a fixture at Arsenal, having competed in 131 of 135 Premier League games since May 2021 prior to his injury, and he admitted that the time off has been unexpectedly beneficial. “I think mentally it was really good for me,” he stated.
Reflecting on his recovery, Saka noted the initial challenge of facing the need for surgery but quickly shifted his focus toward a stronger comeback. “Once it was done and successful, I was just focused on coming back stronger. It was the first proper break I’ve had,” he shared. “I got to do a lot of things that I don’t normally get the chance to do. It’s really nice to be back and I feel fresh mentally for sure.”
This matchup with Real Madrid is notable as it marks the first encounter since Arsenal’s memorable victory in the round of 16 in 2006, when they prevailed 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabéu thanks to Thierry Henry’s goal. The Gunners will face a challenging situation in defense, with Gabriel Magalhães ruled out for the season, leading to the likelihood that Jakub Kiwior will remain in central defense, although fit-again players Ben White and Jurriën Timber could also be in contention to play.
Saka, who is currently in contract discussions with Arsenal—as his deal extends until 2027—revealed that he often seeks advice from Henry, hoping this current squad can replicate the successes of the past. When asked about the possibility of achieving a similar legacy, he said, “Yes, of course. We want to write our own story, but something like that would be nice.” He emphasized his commitment to the club and the connection he shares with fans, stating, “I want to win wearing this badge.”
Arteta echoed the sentiment that this match presents a crucial opportunity for his team to make a strong impression after last year’s quarter-final exit to Bayern Munich. “That’s exactly what we need,” he noted. “We’ve been through hurdles to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in a long time, and we’ve done it twice in a row. Now we want much more, and we are capable of achieving it.”
The manager acknowledged the challenges of injuries this season that could lead Arsenal to a third consecutive finish as runners-up in the Premier League. However, he remains hopeful that his players will rise to the occasion and achieve what previous squads could not. “It’s an inspiration for sure because that generation achieved what we want to achieve,” he stated, referencing the 2006 squad that reached the final. “We’re going to put all the ingredients in our hands to play the game that we want and to dictate its direction.”
Source
www.theguardian.com