LONDON — Arsenal’s winger Bukayo Saka is anticipated to be sidelined for an extended period due to a hamstring injury, as announced by manager Mikel Arteta on Monday.

Saka exited the field limping during the first half in Arsenal’s decisive 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday. Following the game, he was seen leaving the stadium using crutches, raising concerns about the severity of his injury.

“It’s not looking good. He will be out for many weeks,” Arteta commented during a press conference in anticipation of Thursday’s home clash against Ipswich. “I can’t provide an exact timeframe as I’m unsure, but it will certainly be a lengthy absence.”

Currently, Arsenal sits third in the Premier League as they approach a busy holiday schedule. This includes a forthcoming home fixture against Manchester United in the FA Cup and a League Cup semifinal matchup against Newcastle, which are both set for January.

To complicate matters, teammate Raheem Sterling, who plays on the right wing, is also facing a prolonged recovery due to a knee injury, as informed by Arteta.

“Sterling requires additional tests tomorrow to assess the damage,” Arteta indicated. “It’s related to his knee, and we’ll have to wait 24 more hours for results, but sadly, he will also miss significant time.”

At just 23 years old, Saka has emerged as Arsenal’s chief attacking force this season. He has been instrumental, contributing to 15 of the team’s 34 Premier League goals, with five goals scored and ten assists provided.

“Clearly, he is a key player for us,” Arteta remarked. “The influence he has on the team is evident, but this will be an excellent opportunity for us all to devise strategies to tackle yet another challenge, as we have already faced numerous obstacles throughout the season.”