Calafiori: Saka doing “everything” to return in time for Real Madrid | OneFootball

Bukayo Saka is racing against time to return for Arsenal’s Champions League showdown with Real Madrid, with Riccardo Calafiori backing him to make an impact.

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Riccardo Calafiori, like everyone else, knows Bukayo Saka’s return will be a major boost for Arsenal, as the winger accelerates his recovery in hopes of facing Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Saka has been sidelined since before Christmas after suffering a torn right hamstring in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace, an injury that required surgery and has kept him out of action for 18 matches.

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With Arsenal’s European campaign entering a defining phase, Mikel Arteta is hopeful that Saka will be available for selection against the 15-time Champions League winners.

“Bukayo will hopefully do more with the ball at his feet than he has, passing, shooting and running,” Arteta said. “He’s getting closer. When we throw him in with the team, let’s see how he reacts and how fit he can get quickly.”

Photo via Arsenal.com

Calafiori is backing his teammate to make a difference when he returns: “Everyone will be happy if he comes back, he’s a top player and he will make the difference,” Calafiori said.

“You can see when he’s on the pitch that he makes a big difference.

“He’s an important player for us, he’s a top guy as well.

“He’s going to do everything to come back for Real Madrid but right now I’m thinking about Chelsea and then the national team.”

Calafiori: Saka return’s just perfect – Sunday Express 16 Mar 2025

Arsenal’s April fixtures could see Saka ease back into the squad before the first leg against Real Madrid.

Reports suggest he could feature in Premier League clashes against Fulham or Everton, giving him crucial match fitness ahead of the European showdown.

With Thomas Tuchel naming his first England squad on Friday, Saka was left out to focus on his recovery, ensuring Arsenal control his rehabilitation.

“We are positive that in a few weeks, he’ll hopefully be back,” Arteta said, as Arsenal prepare for their biggest test of the season.