Arsenal’s Injury Crisis Deepens as Calafiori Suffers Late Warm-Up Setback

Arsenal faced another defensive injury just minutes before facing Brighton on Saturday. Left-back Riccardo Calafiori was withdrawn from the starting lineup after picking up an issue during the pre-match warm-up. The unexpected change occurred at the Emirates Stadium, forcing manager Mikel Arteta into a last-minute reshuffle.This latest blow compounds a growing injury list for the Gunners in defense. The team was already missing key defenders like Jurriën Timber and Ben White for the crucial Premier League match.

Lewis-Skelly Steps In as Teenager Salmon Makes the Bench

Myles Lewis-Skelly was drafted in for his first league start of the season to cover for Calafiori. The 16-year-old defender Marli Salmon was then added to the substitute’s bench. Salmon has gained recent first-team exposure, making his Champions League debut earlier this month.According to BBC Sport, Arteta has shown a clear willingness to trust young talents in these situations. The manager praised Salmon’s readiness after his European debut, highlighting his versatility to play centre-back or full-back.This reshuffle moved Declan Rice to an emergency right-back role. That tactical shift removed his influential presence from Arsenal’s midfield, potentially weakening their core.

Broader Defensive Concerns Amidst Returning Stars

The timing of Calafiori’s injury is particularly frustrating for the club. It comes as other key players like Gabriel are finally returning to matchday squads after their own lay-offs. Forward Gabriel Jesus has also recently come back, with Kai Havertz reportedly close to a return.For fans, the situation highlights the squad’s vulnerability when hit with multiple simultaneous absences. The reliance on very young players like Salmon, while promising, introduces risk during a busy part of the season. The club will hope Calafiori’s issue is minor.

Tennessee Volunteers Eye Running Back Dallan Hayden in Transfer Portal

This fresh Arsenal injury crisis tests the squad’s depth at a critical juncture. The team’s adaptability will be scrutinized as they navigate this period without several defensive pillars.

Thought you’d like to know

What happened to Riccardo Calafiori?

He picked up an unspecified issue during the pre-game warm-up against Brighton. The problem forced his late withdrawal from the starting lineup just 14 minutes before kick-off.

Who replaced Calafiori in the starting team?

Myles Lewis-Skelly started at left-back in his place. This was Lewis-Skelly’s first Premier League start of the 2025-26 season.

Which young player was promoted to the bench?

16-year-old Marli Salmon was added as a substitute. The versatile defender had made his Champions League debut just days earlier.

How does this affect Arsenal’s defense?

It exacerbates an existing injury crisis. The team was already missing several key defenders, forcing other players like Declan Rice into unfamiliar roles.

What has Mikel Arteta said about using young players?

He stated they must be ready when called upon. Arteta expressed delight for Salmon after his Champions League debut, acknowledging his youth and readiness.

Trusted Sources: BBC Sport