Image: Saka's return to full training signals imminent comeback (Credit: Getty Images)

By Sami Mokbel
Senior Football Correspondent
Updated: 1 hour ago

Key Developments:

• Saka completing final phase of rehabilitation after December hamstring surgery
• Medical staff monitoring progress ahead of Fulham selection decision
• Potential availability for crucial Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid

Road to Recovery

Bukayo Saka's rehabilitation from a grade 2 hamstring tear sustained in Arsenal's 3-1 victory at Crystal Palace on December 28 has progressed without complications. The 23-year-old winger has:

• Completed 12 weeks of progressive physiotherapy
• Passed all strength and mobility benchmarks
• Reintegrated into full first-team training sessions this week

Medical sources indicate Saka's recovery timeline has matched the club's original 14-week projection, though manager Mikel Arteta remains cautious:

"We won't take unnecessary risks with any player's long-term fitness. Bukayo knows the standards we require for match readiness."

Tactical Implications

Saka's potential return comes at a pivotal moment for Arsenal's season:

Statistical Impact (2025 Season):

• 8 goals, 6 assists in 18 league appearances
• 2.3 key passes/game (team-high)
• 86% dribble success rate

Contract Situation

As revealed by BBC Sport, Arsenal will begin formal negotiations to extend Saka's contract this month. The current deal, signed in 2023, expires in 2027 but includes:

• Performance-based escalator clauses
• £200k/week base salary
• Significant image rights provisions

Club Statement:
"Bukayo remains central to our project. Discussions will be handled with the respect his contributions deserve."

Fan Reactions

SakaReturn trended worldwide on social media following training footage releases:

"His creativity was sorely missed during AFCON. Get him wrapped in bubble wrap until Madrid!" - @AFC_Addict "Remember when people said he was injury-prone? 14-week comeback from surgery proves his professionalism" - @EmiratesRegular

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