William Saliba will miss Arsenal’s crucial Premier League match against Chelsea due to a knock he sustained during training. Coach Mikel Arteta confirmed Saliba’s absence, noting that the defender felt uncomfortable in training the day before the match, although he didn’t anticipate it to be a serious issue. Saliba has been a key figure in Arsenal’s defense this season, having only missed one match earlier due to an ankle injury.
Arteta’s defensive strategies are further challenged as Saliba’s regular partner, Gabriel Magalhaes, is also sidelined with an injury incurred during the international break. This marks only the second occasion this season that Arsenal has been without both key defenders since their victory over Southampton earlier in the year. In response to Saliba’s absence, Arsenal announced on social media that Gabriel Jesus and Viktor Gyokeres would return to the squad, with Jesus making his first matchday appearance in 11 months following a serious knee injury.
Summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie will start in the backline against Chelsea. Hincapie has recently been instrumental, contributing to a significant victory over Tottenham, while Mosquera is set to make his league start for the first time since a win over Newcastle.
In addition to Saliba and Magalhaes, Leandro Trossard will also miss this match due to an injury sustained in the Champions League clash against Bayern Munich. Gabriel Martinelli is set to replace Trossard on the left wing.
Despite the injuries, Arsenal’s squad depth is being tested, with new signings poised to step up. Arteta remains hopeful as the team adapts, showing resilience in the face of challenges, and focuses on the return of important players like Jesus as they push forward in the season.