Arsenal face a tense wait on star defender William Saliba update ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League clash with Brentford. The 24-year-old missed Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea after a “bizarre” training knock left him feeling uncomfortable, despite participating in sessions. Mikel Arteta revealed it’s his third minor issue this season, but a crucial test on Tuesday will determine his fitness. “It’s touch and go,” Arteta admitted, hinting at a potential matter-of-days recovery if scans prove positive. The absence of William Saliba exposed defensive frailties against Chelsea, underscoring the importance of his update to Arsenal’s title charge.
Defensive Headache with Gabriel Out
Compounding concerns, partner Gabriel Magalhães remains sidelined with a groin injury from Brazil duty, potentially missing all December fixtures. Arteta confirmed the centre-back is progressing but faces weeks on the sidelines, leaving makeshift pairings like Mosquera and Kiwior to step up. This duo held firm at Stamford Bridge, but Brentford’s pacey attack will test their resolve.
The Midfield and Attack Updates
Leandro Trossard, absent versus Chelsea due to a niggle, underwent assessment on Monday. He could feature if cleared— a timely lifeline for Arteta’s rotations. Kai Havertz, out for weeks with a hamstring strain, is advancing through on-pitch drills. He offers hope for a pre-Christmas return that Arteta called “massive” for team morale.
The Hidden Boost: Jesus’s Comeback
In the darkness, there is a silver lining: The much-desired inclusion of Gabriel Jesus into the squad. The striker, who was out of action in almost 11 months, with knee problems, played in an invitation game and was on the bench in the match against Chelsea. Arteta hailed his work on sharpening. This points to a progressive restart that will strengthen the attacking depth of Arsenal with recent reintegrated Viktor Gyokeres. This twice-boost that is easily forgotten–Jesus and the potential of Trossard–may be critical.
Arteta Eyes Momentum
As Arsenal was 5 points ahead of others after 13 games, Arteta encouraged fans to roar like animals at the Emirates, which made a squad strong despite harsh hits. The decision of Saliba is enormous, but these back-story goodwills are the glimpses of the depth of Gunners in the madness of the celebration.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
