According to a report by the Evening Standard on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Arsenal youngster James Scanlon could be handed an opportunity to make his senior debut if Bukayo Saka is ruled out of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Everton.

Saka suffered a quad injury during Arsenal’s 2-2 Champions League draw against Bayern Munich in midweek, forcing Mikel Arteta to replace him after just 10 minutes.

The England international went down without significant contact after escaping Alphonso Davies and playing a pass out wide. He immediately indicated to the Arsenal bench that he could not continue.

Arteta subsequently confirmed that Saka was dealing with a quad problem and admitted that there was concern over the injury. The Arsenal manager explained that Saka had been having a strong game before being forced off, while adding that the sharp pain experienced by a player who has to leave the pitch is never a positive sign.

Saka was scheduled to undergo a scan on Thursday to determine the severity of the problem, with Arteta expected to provide further clarity during his pre-match press conference on Friday.

Should Saka miss the Everton encounter, Noni Madueke is expected to move into the right-wing position after taking over there against Bayern Munich. Eberechi Eze could also continue on the opposite flank following an improved performance.

Arsenal could face further concerns in attack because Christos Tzolis is also doubtful with a hamstring injury. That could create space for another attacking player in the matchday squad alongside teenage sensation Max Dowman.

Scanlon could consequently find himself in contention for his first senior Arsenal matchday squad. The 20-year-old joined the Gunners from Manchester United during the summer and has already trained with Arteta’s first team on several occasions.

The Gibraltar international, who has 28 senior caps for his country, has impressed for Arsenal Under-21s this season, scoring three goals in four Premier League 2 appearances.

Scanlon cannot feature in the Champions League because he was not included in Arsenal’s 22-player A List squad and does not meet the eligibility requirements for the B List.

However, he is eligible for Premier League action, making Saturday’s game a potential opportunity if Arteta requires another attacking option. His involvement could depend on whether Arsenal decide to use him with the Under-21s, who are also scheduled to play on Saturday.

Following his move from Manchester United, Scanlon explained that he wanted to contribute goals and assists, entertain supporters, represent Arsenal, improve as a player and demonstrate his abilities at the club.