Saka and Martinelli Return to Training as Arsenal Prepare for Crucial Fixtures
Arsenal’s 2024/25 season has taken a dramatic turn for the better, thanks to the return of star forwards Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli to full training. Their comeback provides a major boost for Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of crucial matches, including a Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid.
Just weeks ago, the mood at the Emirates was somber. Arsenal had failed to score in three of their last four games, leading to speculation that their season could end without silverware. Their Carabao Cup exit at the hands of Newcastle, coupled with dropped Premier League points against West Ham and Nottingham Forest, left them 13 points behind league leaders and forced a shift in focus toward the Champions League.
Despite setbacks, Arsenal stunned the football world with a 7-1 demolition of PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. The victory showcased the depth of their squad, with goals from Timber, Nwaneri, Odegaard (twice), Merino, Trossard, and Calafiori. It was a surprising turnaround, especially in the absence of Saka and Martinelli, and it reignited belief in the team’s European ambitions.
Arteta, while pleased with the result, emphasized the unpredictability of football and the importance of humility and continued improvement. He noted that each match presents a new challenge and warned against complacency.
With the second leg against PSV now a formality, Arsenal’s focus shifts to a hectic schedule including a trip to Manchester United and home games against Chelsea and Fulham. These fixtures come just before the Champions League quarter-finals, where they’ll likely face either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid.
The timing of Saka and Martinelli’s return is ideal. Martinelli is expected to be ready for the first leg of the quarter-finals, while Saka—recovering from surgery in December—may be eased in gradually, with the second leg potentially marking his return to the starting lineup.
Arsenal is being cautious with both players, recognizing the risk of rushing them back too soon. The club’s Champions League ambitions now clearly take priority, with the Premier League title race looking increasingly out of reach.
Beyond their talent, the return of Saka and Martinelli brings a psychological lift to the squad. Their energy and attacking flair could reignite Arsenal’s momentum at a crucial point in the season.
In summary, after a rocky spell, Arsenal is regaining confidence with the return of two of their brightest stars. With domestic hopes fading, the Gunners are now setting their sights firmly on Champions League glory.
