Arsenal received a boost as William Saliba was spotted training alongside Mohamed Elneny in a recent video. Now, however, reports on Wednesday suggested that the French defender was unlikely to feature in Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League match against Southampton.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Saliba’s progress had been slower than anticipated and that it was a delicate situation, adding that the team wanted to ensure he was ready before pushing him to play.
“Regarding William we still have to wait a bit more. He’s not progressing as quick as we hoped. It’s a bit delicate. We want to be sure when we push him,” Arteta said, as reported by football.london.
Arteta’s comments suggested that Saliba would also struggle to play a part in the team’s important match against title rivals Manchester City at the Etihad. The situation could worsen for Arsenal fans, as Arteta admitted uncertainty when asked if Saliba could potentially miss the rest of the season.
“I don’t know. It’s a bit early to do. There is some evolution. He’s doing more activity, but he’s not ready yet to throw him in to that pitch,”
The lack of progress in Saliba’s recovery is a cause for concern, and Arteta’s cautious approach indicates that the team will not rush the defender’s return. Arsenal fans may have to wait a bit longer before seeing Saliba back in action.
But although we are missing Saliba, surely we are all happy with the way Rob Holding is holding the fort, aren’t we?
Sam P
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We need to trust our squad players and get behind them
when called upon.. Surely there must be a solution to
keep Haaland quiet.. we have White and Saka to help out
Ödegaard must step up and Partey also!! I saw Ake get
injured against Bayern, so there might be a weakness
there for City ??
Just heard on radio he is likely out for the season.
Yep just read a different report suggesting the same ,such a shame as was hoping he would be back for city for such an important match .
I’m guessing he can play vs city if we are willing to take a risk on his injury and injection but the club is being sensible not risking his long term future for one match/season. This is our CB for the next decade we are talking about and back injuries complication can wreck your whole career.
Start chalking City’s name on the title. No chance we can beat City without Saliba.