Bukayo Saka leaves England camp and returns to Arsenal for treatment on injury

The news comes at a critical juncture in Arsenal’s season with games against Manchester City and Bayern Munich on the horizon

Lawrence Ostlere
Thursday 21 March 2024 18:45 GMT
Comments
Bukayo Saka has returned to Arsenal
Bukayo Saka has returned to Arsenal (Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Bukayo Saka has left England’s camp ahead of friendlies with Brazil and Belgium and returned to Arsenal for treatment.

Saka did not appear in England’s training sessions at St George’s Park this week, instead taking part in light indoor gym work, and has now departed what is the final squad before Gareth Southgate names his provisional selection for Euro 2024 in May.

The news will be a concern for Arsenal ahead of their potentially season-defining clash with title rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium next weekend. The 22-year-old has been in fine form for the Gunners this season as they sit top of the Premier League and also prepare for a Champions League quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich.

“Bukayo Saka has left the England camp and returned to his club for continued rehabilitation,” the Football Association said in a statement. “The Arsenal forward reported to St George's Park with an injury and has been unable to participate in training.

“No further replacements are planned as a 25-man England squad continue their preparation for the forthcoming internationals with Brazil and Belgium.”

Harry Kane, Cole Palmer and Jordan Henderson have also missed out on training this week, nursing knocks ahead of the match with Brazil on Saturday night. England then play Belgium on Tuesday evening, with both games taking place at Wembley Stadium.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in