Bukayo Saka's return from injury has reignited Arsenal's attack at the perfect moment, as the Gunners set their sights on a historic Premier League and Champions League double.
The England winger made an instant impact in Saturday's 3-0 victory over Fulham, scoring one goal and setting up another for Viktor Gyokeres. It was the first time in 16 matches that Mikel Arteta's side had scored three goals in a game—a timely reminder of their attacking firepower ahead of a crucial Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid.
Arteta wisely withdrew Saka at half-time to protect the 24-year-old, who has been managing an achilles issue in recent months. The manager clearly has one eye on Tuesday's second-leg showdown, with Arsenal hoping to reach just the second Champions League final in the club's history.
The tie is finely balanced at 1-1 after a first leg dominated by penalty drama in Spain. Both teams scored from the spot, but Arsenal felt aggrieved not to be awarded a second penalty when Eberechi Eze was brought down in the box. Saka, who came off the bench in that match, helped swing momentum back in Arsenal's favor as they finished the first leg strongly.
Fresh off signing a new four-year contract that reportedly makes him the club's highest earner, Saka is showing signs of returning to his best after a serious hamstring injury sidelined him for three months last season. Arteta believes the attacker is now physically and mentally refreshed for the decisive run-in.
"He certainly made a difference," Arteta said of Saka's performance against Fulham. "He made two actions that decided the game and we know what he's capable of. He's come back in the most important period of the season and now he's fresh. His mind is fresh, his hunger is at the highest possible height."
Saka's quick feet and pinpoint delivery set up Gyokeres for a simple tap-in to settle Arsenal's nerves early on. He then turned scorer, latching onto the Swedish striker's pass and drilling a shot into the bottom corner for his 10th goal of an injury-hit campaign.
With Arsenal's miserly defense having conceded just six goals in 13 Champions League games this season, the return of their attacking talisman could be the missing piece in their pursuit of European glory. Tuesday night at the Emirates promises to be a defining moment in Arsenal's season—and Saka looks ready to lead the charge.