William Saliba is facing a race against time to be declared fit for Arsenal clash against Manchester City next week. The French international has been unavailable for selection in recent few weeks as he continues to recover from a back injury.
Will William Saliba be back in time and ready for the Manchester City game
Arsenal medical staff are ‘cautious’ about Saliba’s injury. They do not want to aggravate his issue further by rushing him back. But the Gunners now have a vital seven days ahead of them in what could see them go on to win the Premier League title for the first time since 2004. There is hope Saliba can speed up his rehabilitation this week. Gunners boss Arteta indicated last Friday that the centre-back is expected to recommence training on the grass this week.
Saliba has missed four weeks after suffering a lower back injury during the Gunners’ home clash against Sporting CP in the Europa League in March. His absence has coincided with a recent dip in form for Arsenal, causing them to drop crucial points in their bid for the Premier League title.
The importance of Saliba to Arteta’s starting XI has been underlined by Arsenal’s recent defensive deficiencies.
The Gunners have drawn their previous two matches, relinquishing 2-0 leads on both occasions. These results mean that City will retain the title if they win all their remaining fixtures.
Saliba willing to risk it all
On Tuesday, also injured Mohammed Elneny posted on his Instagram account. He posted a video of Saliba in the gym and exclaiming “Willy, vamos.”
William Saliba is ready to put his body on the line. He wants to play in Arsenal’s title run despite concerns of injury complications if he is rushed back, according to The Daily Mail. The report indicates that Saliba’s injury requires day-to-day management, indicating his recovery is not completely straightforward.
Mikel Arteta’s side have not kept a clean sheet in the four games that Rob Holding has deputised for the Frenchman. Mikel Arteta has trusted William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes at the heart of the defense this season. Arsenal want Saliba back as soon as possible. They have a title to win which they haven’t won for 19 years. William Saliba is willing to take the risk inorder to help Arsenal cross the line.
