All hands are on deck for the all-important clash against Manchester City on Sunday, but there is the business of the international break afterwards and as expected, Arsenal will have its contingent representing their national teams, and it was surprising and bewildering to know that Bukayo Saka has been called up by the English national team for their friendly with Australia and Euro qualifiers against Italy.

England currently tops their group with 13 points, while Italy is locked with Ukraine and North Macedonia at 7 points, so the Azzurri will be fighting tooth and nail to ensure that that get maximum points against the Three Lions. Yes, England is a nation with vast footballing talent, but Saka is one of their generational talents and they will want him on the pitch when fit. I don’t expect him to get any action in the dead-rubber friendly with Australia, but Gareth Southgate’s focus would be on getting him available for the Italy game.

We are expecting Mikel Arteta’s Manchester City press conference today, so we will get updated information on the status of Saka’s fitness even though most of the Arsenal universe have made their peace with their talisman not featuring this weekend. I would not expect Arteta to be 100% honest on the Saka fitness issues, but he can still provide subtle hints on whether he will actually feature or not.

The player himself will be itching to get on the pitch in an important game like Manchester City at home, but we really need to be concerned about his long term health. He has been an epitome of longevity and consistency in the Premier League, featuring in 87 consecutive games, and the game against Manchester City will not just be about him just featuring, but making an impact because of his undoubted importance to the side.

We will keep our fingers crossed and hope that we get some favorable news on the matter.

Sayonara.

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