In a pivotal moment of Arsenal’s 2025/26 campaign, Mikel Arteta has left star winger Bukayo Saka out of the squad for Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final against Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium.

The Gunners, chasing their first Premier League title since 2004, head into the cup tie amid a mounting injury crisis and a congested fixture list that includes a Europa League clash with Sporting CP next week. Saka’s omission reflects a deliberate squad rotation rather than a fresh long-term injury.

The 24-year-old England international was one of 11 Arsenal players who withdrew from international duty in March. Along with Declan Rice, Saka returned early from the England camp for medical assessment after the March internationals.

Why is Bukayo Saka not in Arsenal Squad Today?

Reports indicate the decision was driven primarily by tiredness and precautionary fitness management rather than a specific new injury. Saka had already endured a demanding season, including recovery from earlier hamstring surgery and a dip in form that saw him score only two league goals since December. Arteta has repeatedly emphasised the need to protect key players after a “cluster” of injuries across defence, midfield and attack.

Saka is expected to be available for bigger tests ahead, but his absence tonight underscores the depth of Arsenal’s current challenges and Arteta’s ruthless focus on long-term success. The Gunners will hope the gamble pays off as they push for a return to Wembley.

At his pre-match press conference, Arteta remained coy when asked about the availability of Saka, Rice, Martín Zubimendi and others who missed national-team fixtures, simply replying “You will see.” Multiple sources now confirm the trio are being rested for this fixture against Championship side Southampton. With Noni Madueke ruled out by a knee knock sustained on England duty, the Gunners boss has named Max Dowman on the right for the match.

Kepa starts at Goal

Arsenal suffered a Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City last month and cannot afford further absences as the Premier League run-in intensifies. And despite a crucial mistake in the final, Kepa Arrizabalaga has started at goal for the North London club.