Jamie O’Hara criticizes Mikel Arteta over Bukayo Saka’s injury

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Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara claims Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta bears some responsibility for Bukayo Saka’s significant injury setback.

Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara has sparked controversy by claiming Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta should share the blame for Bukayo Saka’s recent injury. Saka, who has been a standout performer for Arsenal this season, suffered a serious hamstring injury during the 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on December 21, 2024.

O’Hara, speaking on Grosvenor Sport, argued that Saka’s injury was inevitable given the amount of football he has played. He pointed out that Arteta has fielded Saka in every match, including less critical fixtures like the Carabao Cup games, which O’Hara believes should have been used to rotate players. “It was always going to happen; Arsenal have got themselves to blame,” O’Hara said.

The fixture congestion and lack of rest for top players were also highlighted by O’Hara as contributing factors. “The league demands these players to perform at the highest level week in, week out, but they’re knackered,” he added. O’Hara emphasized that players are not machines and need adequate rest to avoid injuries.

Arteta, on the other hand, has defended his decision, stating that Saka’s injury was unfortunate and that the team is doing everything possible to manage without him. The Arsenal manager mentioned that Saka’s recovery timeline is uncertain, but he is expected to be out for several months.

Saka himself took to social media to reassure fans, posting a picture from his hospital bed and promising to come back stronger from the setback. His absence will undoubtedly be a significant blow to Arsenal’s title aspirations, as he has been instrumental in their campaign this season, scoring five goals and providing ten assists in 16 league games.

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