Four possible formations Arsenal could use to cope without Bukayo Saka as the team’s injury concerns become a reality.

It’s not the Christmas gift Mikel Arteta had hoped for.

Bukayo Saka suffered a torn hamstring during Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday, ruling him out for several weeks. His absence comes at a crucial time for the Gunners, who are still aiming for the Premier League title despite recent struggles. Arsenal’s upcoming schedule includes key league matches against Ipswich, Brentford, and Brighton, followed by two important cup fixtures: the Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle and the FA Cup clash with Manchester United. After that, they face the north London Derby, Aston Villa, and Dinamo Zagreb, all at home.

With Martin Ødegaard already sidelined, there are growing concerns about how Saka’s absence will affect the team’s season, especially since Arteta has indicated that no replacement will be signed in January.

Here are four potential formations Arsenal could use without Saka:

1. Martinelli moves to the right

It’s unlikely that Arteta will change from his preferred 4-3-3 formation. The most obvious choice is to shift Gabriel Martinelli to the right wing, a position he’s played 10 times for Arsenal. While Martinelli is naturally a left winger, he was part of a successful formula last season when playing on the right, helping the team win three matches and earn a draw at Manchester City.

2. Arteta adopts Guardiola’s strategy

Another possibility is for Gabriel Jesus to move to the right. While Jesus is enjoying a goal-scoring run, he’s also shown he can excel as a right winger, having scored eight goals and provided 10 assists in that position during his time at Manchester City. Arteta could push Kai Havertz forward, with Thomas Partey anchoring the midfield, but this would be a more risky option, especially considering how well Jesus is performing up front.

3. Trossard steps in

Leandro Trossard, who was signed for £27 million, could also be an option on the right. The Belgium international has shown versatility throughout his career, playing as a right-winger at Brighton and for Belgium in Euro 2024. Although he’s only played once on the right for Arsenal, his experience and flexibility make him a strong candidate to fill the gap left by Saka.

4. Sterling gets a shot

Finally, Raheem Sterling, the most experienced right-winger in Arsenal’s squad after Saka, could be given the chance to step up. With 178 career appearances in that position, including a remarkable 51 goals and 48 assists, Sterling has the pedigree to make an impact. While he hasn’t been a regular starter since his move from Chelsea, an opening on the right could be just what he needs to prove himself, especially as Arteta has expressed sympathy for his current lac

k of playing time.