Mikel Arteta fears 'significant' injuries to Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard after Leeds win

It was a bittersweet afternoon for the Gunners, who not only celebrated a commanding win and the unveiling of new signing Eberechi Eze, but also saw two of their most important players forced off with injuries - raising alarm ahead of a crucial stretch of fixtures.

Captain Martin Odegaard was the first to exit, appearing to injure his shoulder early in the first half. Despite attempting to play on, he was visibly in discomfort and was eventually substituted in the 38th minute for youngster Ethan Nwaneri.

"Martin felt something in his shoulder when he landed," Arteta said after the match. "We don't know (how bad it is). We'll have to scan him tomorrow and understand a bit better."

Saka, who had earlier scored Arsenal's second goal and taken over the captain's armband from Odegaard, also limped off in the second half after pulling up without contact. The England international immediately signaled to the bench and was replaced by Leandro Trossard in the 54th minute.

Saka previously missed almost four months due to a hamstring injury on the opposite leg, and Arteta admitted the current issue may be another serious setback.

"Bukayo, while he was running with the ball, carrying the ball, wrestling with the defender, he felt something in his hamstring," Arteta said. "I think it's the other hamstring - not the same one as the previous injury. For Bukayo to come off, for sure it looks like something that is significant."

In his post-match press conference, Arteta added: "I haven't spoken to the doctors yet. But we already lost Kai (Havertz), which is a big player for us, and now Bukayo and Martin. That is why the squad has to be well-equipped. It's going to be a long season and we're going to need a lot of players to achieve what we want."

The injuries come at a particularly challenging time, with Arsenal set to face Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, Newcastle, and Manchester City in their next four Premier League fixtures. The Gunners also await the Champions League group stage draw, which takes place on Thursday.

Despite the blow, Arteta was able to find some positives in the day, with new signing Viktor Gyokeres making an immediate impact. Gyökeres scored twice, including a penalty, in what was his first goal-scoring outing for the club.

Still, the growing injury list remains a major concern just two weeks into the season.

"Those are the negatives of the day," Arteta concluded. "It tells you how well-equipped you have to be in this league to manage and maintain the level we want."

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