Arsenal have been dealt a bitter blow simply as the brand new season gathered momentum.
William Saliba sustained a sprained ankle in the course of the pre-match warm-up at Anfield forward of their conflict with Liverpool, and remarkably started the sport, solely to limp off lower than 5 minutes in.
Stories from L’Équipe point out the harm will sideline the French centre-back for 3 to 4 weeks, probably preserving him out till after the October worldwide break.
This not solely guidelines him out of France’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers in opposition to Azerbaijan and Iceland in early October but additionally a punishing schedule of seven key matches for Arsenal throughout the Premier League, Champions League, and Carabao Cup.
William Saliba is ready to overlook essential video games for Arsenal
These fixtures embody:
Nottingham Forest (dwelling)Athletic Bilbao (away) within the Champions LeagueManchester Metropolis on the EmiratesCarabao Cup third-round tie vs Port ValeNewcastle United awayOlympiacos (dwelling) in EuropeWest Ham United at dwelling
Saliba has been a defensive linchpin for each Arsenal and France, and his absence comes amid a troubling harm disaster that already consists of Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Christian Nørgaard, Ben White, and long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus.
Gunners have depth in defensive positions
Regardless of the setback, Arsenal have choices. Summer time signing Cristhian Mosquera, who changed Saliba in opposition to Liverpool, delivered a composed efficiency and is predicted to function closely in his absence.
Piero Hincapié, a Deadline Day arrival, and versatile Riccardo Calafiori, who can slot into central defence, additionally strengthen the choices.
This early-season blow is probably considered one of Arsenal’s most important since final season. Nevertheless, depth and good squad rotation may assist Arteta take care of the setback.
Sources: Gabriel Martinelli faces unsure future at Arsenal, Euro giants think about January transfer
