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Arteta Shares Saka and Merino Injury Updates

By on February 3, 2026

Mikel Arteta has shared the latest fitness news on Bukayo Saka and Mikel Merino ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea.

The Gunners welcome the Blues to the Emirates Stadium tonight, with a place in the final at stake. Arsenal hold a 3-2 advantage after winning the first leg at Stamford Bridge.

Attention before the game has centred on the condition of two key players, following injuries picked up in recent matches.

Arteta gives fresh update on Bukayo Saka

Saka was forced off during the warm-up prior to Arsenal’s 4-0 win over Leeds United on Saturday, raising concern among supporters.

The winger appeared to feel discomfort while doing pre-match warm-up drills, which led to close checks by the medical team.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta explained that the issue does not look serious at this stage.

However, he made it clear that a final decision has not yet been made on Saka’s involvement.

“We have to wait,” he said in his pre-match press conference on Monday. “Today he was better but we have to wait and see how he responds, and then make the decision.”

“It does not look like something too serious. Whether he is going to be available for tomorrow or the weekend, we will see.“

The Arsenal boss stressed that Saka’s response in training will guide the final call. There is still hope that the winger could be involved, but caution remains a priority.

Mikel Merino set for surgery

While Saka remains a doubt, Arteta confirmed tougher news regarding Mikel Merino.

The midfielder will require surgery after suffering a foot injury against Manchester United.

Arteta admitted the setback is a major blow for the squad at a crucial stage of the season.

“He needs to go through a procedure, which is not always positive. He is a big player for us, a player that has such versatility and capacity to compete in various positions, and that is a big blow.

“It is a very rare injury so we have to wait and see once we have the surgery, how that reacts daily, obviously monitor it throughout the week for the surgery and see. I know Mikel is going to do absolutely everything that he possibly can to come back as quick as possible. But as well you have to respect the healing process and the fact that obviously it is an injury that is quite rare.”

The manager explained that recovery time will depend on how Merino responds after the procedure. Still, patience will be needed due to the nature of the injury.

Arsenal will now turn full focus to the Chelsea clash on Tuesday night. The aim is to secure the result needed and book a place in the Carabao Cup final.