William Saliba has missed Arsenal’s recent matches, even though the issue that ruled him out was initially not regarded as serious. Mikel Arteta had expected the defender to be absent for only one game, yet the Frenchman has now missed three in succession. His continued absence has arrived at a difficult moment for Arsenal, as Cristhian Mosquera has also been injured, joining Saliba and Gabriel on the treatment table. This situation has underlined that despite the often praised depth within the squad, Arsenal remain only a few injuries away from a defensive concern, a pattern that has been evident in previous seasons.
Growing Pressure on Arsenal’s Defence
Supporters have become increasingly uneasy about the simultaneous loss of Saliba and Gabriel, whose presence, positioning and control have been central to the team’s defensive strength. The absence of Saliba in particular has affected stability at the back, and fans are eager to see him return to action as soon as possible. Arteta continues to work with the players available to him, urging adaptability and concentration, but the loss of the Frenchman has clearly been significant, and his recovery is urgently needed. As Arsenal navigate this demanding period, every selection decision has taken on added importance, especially with crucial fixtures approaching.

Hopes for Saliba’s Return Against Club Brugge
As preparations intensify for the Champions League match against Club Brugge, there is renewed optimism about a potential boost for the squad. According to Standard Sport, Saliba could be ready to feature in the forthcoming fixture. The report states that he is still not believed to have sustained a serious injury and that confidence remains in his near-term return. Arsenal need a strong performance, and the Belgian side is fully capable of causing problems if important players are absent. Securing a victory is vital, and the possibility of Saliba rejoining the team provides welcome encouragement at a time when defensive options have been stretched.
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From looking at Marli Salmon in tube clips, he should
get his first taste of first team action asap !! He still has
to bulk up a little but seems to be clever and fast ..
Even if he is fit, give him a rest along with Raya, Rice, Saka and Zubimendi.
Give the squad players a run out let them get their match fitness, cos we’ll be playing many games this season and will need them to hit the ground running when they make the first XI
We have 2 ‘easy’ games in Brugege and Wolves. Perfect time for the squad players to get their numbers up before the hectic Xmas period starts.
I agree with you, more so as our CL knockout stage qualification is virtually assured
Brugge and Wolves are in a colossal mess. We don’t need to rush back injured players, let’s use some of the fringe ones.
Can I just say that while being confident can be a good thing, over confidence isn’t.
Reading things like, our next two games are easy for instance. For me all opposition teams need to be respected.🤦♂️
Dude it was predicted on here that Halland wouldn’t manage a shot on target against our defence
You should have seen the disrespect towards Sunderland and Chelsea
The arrogance of some of our fans has been astounding this season
Dan,
I just don’t get it. Talk about tempting fete. And then if we slip up against these two teams, all hell will break loose. 🤦♂️
We don’t need to slip up in the next two matches for all hell to break loose Derek.
We lose our second game of the season against villa and that has happened.
When one is asked to predict scores, they give their opinions and some may go over the top, either in a negative or positive way.
So what?!?!
I’ve read on here so many things that I agree and disagree with… but I always remember that these are Arsenal fans just giving their opinions – nothing more and nothing less.
As for disrespecting other fans Dan, I wonder if you’ve ever sat back and reflected on your article about Liverpool fans at the CL final in Paris?
It’s all very well taking the moral high ground, but stones and greenhouses come to mind.
Ken1945,
While I hear what you’re saying regards predictions, I still stand by my stance that underestimating any opponent isn’t wise.
That’s what makes the PL what it is. You can never tell who will drop points where.
I think pert of my problem stems from being 9 years old, watching us blow a 2-0 lead in the FA Cup final, before Alan Sunderland scoring the winner. I think that experience has made me cautious, so I now take nothing for granted all these years later. 😂👍
Of course underestimating opponents is dangerous, but if fans do it, that doesn’t effect Mikel and the players does it.
I’ve yet to read or hear any player or Mikel say anything that would lead me to think they are underestimating any club – have you got any examples that I might have missed?
I didn’t say we were disrespecting other fans but other teams
Oh I see.
We can disrespect fans but not their teams.
What kind of logic is that Dan?