William Saliba was involved in training ahead of Arsenal’s fixture against Nottingham Forest, with optimism surrounding his availability for the encounter. The French defender had sustained a minor injury during the match against Liverpool, an issue that ruled him out of international duty with France during the recent break.
Saliba has become an essential figure in the Arsenal back line, forming a robust and dependable partnership with Gabriel. His consistency and physical resilience have ensured he is rarely absent through injury, establishing him as one of the most reliable members of the squad.
When he was forced off during the match against Liverpool, his place was taken by summer arrival Cristhian Mosquera, who went on to start against Nottingham Forest. The Spaniard performed admirably, ensuring that Arsenal did not suffer significantly from Saliba’s absence. Nevertheless, Saliba remains a cornerstone of the team, and his presence is always highly valued in every competition.
Saliba’s Fitness Concerns
While there was early confidence about his return, uncertainty lingers over whether Saliba will be fit enough to participate in Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League fixture. According to Arsenal Media, Mikel Arteta explained that the player himself requested a rest for the Forest match.
The manager stated, “He trained yesterday and he did the whole session and he was OK. I spoke to him afterwards and he said I think I need a few more days. The turnaround has been too quick for the extent of the injury so when a player says that, don’t push it. I think Mosquera was very, very good.”
Arteta’s comments highlight the importance of listening to the player’s own assessment, particularly so early in the season when there will be ample opportunities for Saliba to contribute.
Looking Ahead to the Season
Arsenal find themselves at the beginning of a demanding campaign, with matches across multiple competitions on the horizon. Saliba’s role in this schedule will be crucial, yet Arteta’s cautious approach underlines a long-term perspective. With Mosquera stepping up effectively in his absence, the manager appears intent on protecting the Frenchman’s fitness to ensure he remains available for the most significant fixtures ahead.
By prioritising careful management over immediate availability, Arsenal are showing their intent to maintain squad strength throughout the season while preserving Saliba’s condition for the challenges to come.
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I agree with decision to rest Saliba. I won’t play him on Tuesday either. Mosquera has so been very competent and there no need to risk Saliba by rushing back before he feels like he is at 100%
I agree, give Mosquera a taste of the UCL against Athletic.
Mosquera has proven to be a great signing, so I wouldn’t worry about Saliba getting additional rest. However, his and Gabriel’s partnership is a major reason why we’ve handled City’s attack the last few times, so if he can be back for next weekend that would be ideal, even if just on the bench. Haaland is looking good today.
A manager listening to and taking notice of a player regarding the said players fitness 😲…
He listened to the player when he said he was fit to play against Liverpool HD and look where that got him with certain fans!!
Ken, my post was a sarcastic dig at those fans 😉
I know that HD, I was just backing you up and wondered if we would get any responses from those who wanted MA to ignore what a player (and the medical team of course) said.
The question is, should MA have said “No you said you were fit and you weren’t against pool, so I’m now ignoring you saying your not fit and your playing against Forest?
Strange article??????
Herr Drier and Ken1945,
I hear you both. But we’ll have to agree to disagree on the Saliba subject. I still stand by my stance, as I’m sure you both do with yours. 👍