Arteta’s winger hunt sparks Saka criticism before Bayern clash

The Allianz Arena lights blaze as Arsenal’s travelling party steps onto the pitch, Mikel Arteta eyeing a left‑winger while Bukayo Saka watches from the bench, all ahead of Wednesday evening’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich in a tense pre‑match atmosphere. Arsenal hope the encounter will boost their momentum ahead of the domestic run‑in.

The Gunners secured a narrow 1‑0 win at Nottingham Forest on Sunday. Noni Madueke’s deflected strike provided the decisive goal and moved Arsenal within three points of league leaders Manchester City.

Champions League showdown in Munich

Arsenal travel to the Allianz Arena for a blockbuster Champions League encounter on Wednesday evening. The English champions, who reached the final of the European club competition last season, will face the German champions, whom Vincent Kompany guided to the semi‑finals.

Following the Bayern trip, Arsenal return to the Premier League with a home fixture against Everton. The match against Everton will be played at the Emirates Stadium.

Transfer drama and Saka criticism

Former defender Gilles Grimandi has identified PSG winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as Arteta’s ideal signing, despite the player’s hefty salary at Paris. Grimandi told Goal that the player is special because he excels in big games. The story has been highlighted in Sport coverage across Europe.

Arsenal on alert: Saka out for six weeks with Champions League injury

Arsenal’s summer exit of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard left a void on the flanks. The club responded by signing £34 million forward Christos Tzolis as a backup option.

The Gunners also missed out on primary targets Vinicius Junior and Kenan Yildiz. Consequently, they have relied on Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke to provide width this season.

Carlton Cole, a former Chelsea striker, has slammed Saka, calling him a passenger in Arteta’s side after the winger failed to score against Nottingham Forest. Cole argued that Saka’s recent performances have been underwhelming despite his early‑season three‑goal burst.

Arsenal brace for Saka's possible two‑month absence after Bayern clash

Cole, speaking on The Dressing Room Podcast, said: “We have to look at Saka, I’m not sure man, he’s not doing it. I think he’s a little bit of a passenger at the minute and I hope that he does come good but he’s not quite there right now.” He suggested that Saka’s place in the starting line‑up should be questioned in the coming weeks.

He also mentioned Max Dowman’s view that players must earn their spots, implying Saka should not be exempt. Cole warned that continued leniency could undermine squad harmony.