Arsenal’s Title Hopes Shaken as Key Defender Saliba Sidelined with Mystery Knock

William Saliba, a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defence, was a late omission from the squad against Chelsea. The French centre-back suffered a knock in training just one day before the pivotal Premier League match at Stamford Bridge. His absence, alongside the injured Gabriel Magalhaes, forced manager Mikel Arteta into a makeshift defensive pairing.

This injury news deals a significant blow to Arsenal’s defensive stability during a congested December fixture list. The club confirmed the setback via social media, casting immediate doubt over Saliba’s availability for the crucial weeks ahead.

Arteta Confirms Further Tests Needed for Saliba Injury

Mikel Arteta provided limited details on the nature of Saliba’s issue. Speaking after the 1-1 draw with Chelsea, the manager stated Saliba would undergo further medical tests. “I think he has another test tomorrow to see the extent of that feeling,” Arteta explained to reporters.

The club is awaiting results before offering a timeline for his return. This uncertainty leaves Arsenal’s defensive plans in disarray as they navigate multiple competitions.

According to Reuters, such last-minute injuries can drastically alter a team’s season momentum. Arsenal now faces a major test of squad depth without their first-choice centre-back partnership.

Defensive Crisis Deepens with Gabriel Also Sidelined

Saliba’s injury compounds an existing problem for Arteta. His regular partner, Gabriel Magalhaes, remains out with an adductor injury sustained on international duty. The Brazilian defender is expected to be sidelined for several more weeks.

This forced Arteta to start summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie together against Chelsea. The new pairing showed understandable nerves early on but grew into the game as it progressed.

Arsenal’s packed schedule offers little respite. Matches against Brentford, Aston Villa, and Wolves are imminent, increasing the urgency for a clear diagnosis on Saliba.

Attack Returns But Cannot Offset Defensive Worry

There was some positive injury news for Arsenal in attack. Star striker Viktor Gyokeres returned from a hamstring issue off the bench. Captain Martin Odegaard also gained minutes after his own absence.

However, these returns are overshadowed by the defensive dilemma. The team’s structure relies heavily on Saliba’s composure and recovery pace at the back.

Further concern arose as Leandro Trossard also missed the Chelsea match with a muscle issue. Arteta opted not to risk the Belgian attacker, highlighting the physical strain of the season.

Arsenal’s immediate future now hinges on the severity of William Saliba’s knock. The outcome of his medical tests will dictate Arteta’s tactical approach for a decisive period in the Premier League title race.

Info at your fingertips

What is William Saliba’s injury?

William Saliba suffered a knock in training. The exact nature and severity remain unclear pending further medical tests scheduled for early this week.

How long will Saliba be out for Arsenal?

There is no confirmed timeline yet. Arsenal and Mikel Arteta are awaiting the results of scans before providing a return date for the defender.

Who replaced Saliba against Chelsea?

Summer signing Cristhian Mosquera started alongside Piero Hincapie in central defence. This was a completely new partnership for the Gunners.

Is Gabriel Magalhaes also injured?

Yes. Gabriel is recovering from an adductor injury and is expected to be out for several more weeks, deepening Arsenal’s defensive crisis.

When is Arsenal’s next match?

Arsenal faces Brentford at the Emirates Stadium next. This will be the first test of their reshuffled defence without Saliba.

Did any Arsenal attackers return from injury?

Yes. Viktor Gyokeres returned from a hamstring issue off the bench against Chelsea. Gabriel Jesus was also back in the squad for the first time since January.