William Saliba Injury Update: Will Arsenal Star Play Against Burnley?

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a fresh William Saliba injury update ahead of the club’s Premier League trip to Burnley. The French defender remains a doubt after sustaining a knock in last Sunday’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.

Speaking at the Sobha Realty Training Centre on Friday, Arteta confirmed that Saliba’s status remains uncertain, while Gabriel Martinelli is ruled out. Both players suffered injuries during the Palace match and have since been under medical assessment.

Saliba Facing Late Fitness Test Before Burnley Clash

Arteta told reporters that Saliba’s situation will be evaluated after one final training session before the weekend. “Saliba we have to wait and see,” the manager said. “We have another training session this afternoon and we’ll assess him then.”

Meanwhile, Martinelli continues to recover from his setback and is not expected to feature. “Martinelli is still out,” Arteta added. “We don’t know yet, but this game will come too early for him.”

The absence of Saliba could be significant for Arsenal’s backline. The French center-back has been key to their defensive record this season, starting every league game until the Palace win. His potential unavailability may force Arteta to rely on Ben White or Jakub Kiwior in central defense alongside Gabriel Magalhães.

Other Arsenal Injury Updates from Arteta

Arteta also gave updates on several long-term absentees including Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Jesus. He revealed optimism about their recovery timelines but ruled out any immediate returns before the international break.

“Some of them are getting closer, I think in the right direction, but not available yet,” Arteta said. “I would say weeks, and some of them pretty soon hopefully if they keep evolving the way they are doing.”

The Spanish boss hinted that the two-week international break could prove crucial for getting key players back to full fitness. “After that, I think we’ll have some back. I don’t know if it’s going to be all of them, some of them, but we’ll be quite close by then.”

Arsenal Eye Post-Break Boost Ahead of North London Derby

With the first North London Derby of the season looming soon after the international break, Arteta is hopeful of having multiple returnees available. “They’re tremendous players,” he said. “I see them work every single day, how desperate they are to be part of the team. It’s going to be a huge boost for the squad.”

Arsenal currently sit near the top of the Premier League table, and their depth will be tested in the coming weeks. The club will need to balance squad rotation carefully, particularly with Saliba’s situation unresolved and several senior players still sidelined.

As of now, Saliba’s availability for the Burnley match remains uncertain. Arteta will make a final decision after Friday’s training session, but optimism is cautious as the club prioritizes long-term fitness over short-term risk.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest William Saliba injury update?

Saliba remains a doubt for Arsenal’s trip to Burnley, with Arteta confirming a late fitness test will determine his availability.

Q2: Is Gabriel Martinelli playing against Burnley?

No. Arteta confirmed that Martinelli is still out and not expected to return in time for the match.

Q3: When will Arsenal’s injured players return?

Arteta said several players could return after the international break if recovery continues as planned.

Q4: Could Saliba return after the break?

Yes, if he continues improving, Saliba is likely to be back for the first North London Derby of the season.

Q5: Who could replace Saliba against Burnley?

Ben White or Jakub Kiwior are the leading options to partner Gabriel Magalhães in central defense.