Bukayo Saka is aiming for a return in time to face Real Madrid. Saka is on track to be fit for Arsenal's Champions League quarter-final at the Emirates on Tuesday, April 8, which would be a significant boost for Mikel Arteta's European ambitions if his England star could even make an appearance from the bench.

Arsenal are hopeful that Saka will continue to make good progress over the next 10 days and may even be on the bench against Fulham on Tuesday, April 1. They also have a match at Everton on Saturday, April 5, before the first leg against Real Madrid, which provides Saka with a significant goal to strive for. Saka sustained a torn hamstring at Crystal Palace on December 21 and underwent surgery, with the recovery period expected to be around three months.

Saka will step up the final part of his rehabilitation in the coming days over the international break. Facing Real Madrid is dependent on him not suffering any setbacks.

If everything goes according to plan, per the , Saka could be back for Arsenal's most crucial matches of the season against Real Madrid at the Emirates and then the return leg at the Bernabeu eight days later.

Saka, 23, was the first of several significant injuries for Arsenal this season, with Gabriel Jesus, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli all experiencing extended periods on the sidelines.

Martinelli made a surprising return to the bench against Manchester United last week, and now Saka is eager to follow suit.

Arsenal have felt the absence of Saka's creativity, skill and leadership as they've slipped in the title race, with the Champions League now their best shot at success.

Gunners manager Arteta will be well aware that the return of Saka - arguably Arsenal's most creative and threatening player - could provide a substantial boost for their most crucial matches of the season.