Saka Scores on Dream Return as Arsenal Edge Fulham Amidst Injury Worries

Arsenal fans celebrated the return of Bukayo Saka after a lengthy injury absence, and the England star delivered almost immediately. Introduced in the 66th minute, Saka headed home a flick-on from Gabriel Martinelli just seven minutes later to double Arsenal's lead, sparking jubilant scenes at the Emirates.

Earlier, Mikel Merino had given the Gunners the advantage in the 37th minute. Following good work from Ethan Nwaneri, Merino's shot took a heavy deflection off Jorge Cuenca, wrong-footing Fulham keeper Bernd Leno.

Despite controlling much of the game, Arsenal's evening was marred by significant injury setbacks. Centre-back Gabriel Magalhães limped off with a suspected hamstring injury early in the first half. Later, Jurriën Timber, who had battled on after an earlier knock, also had to be substituted with a knee issue. These injuries add to existing concerns over Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori, leaving manager Mikel Arteta with a potential defensive headache for the upcoming Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid.

Fulham, who defended resolutely for periods, threatened a late comeback when substitute Rodrigo Muniz scored in stoppage time following a run from Ryan Sessegnon. Despite a nervy finish, Arsenal held on to extend their impressive unbeaten home record against the Cottagers and secure three vital league points.

How crucial will these defensive injuries be against Real Madrid? Can Arsenal cope without Gabriel and potentially Timber? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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