Arsenal could face a major blow ahead of their Premier League match against Aston Villa on Saturday, with William Saliba emerging as a fitness concern.
The French defender appeared to sustain a hamstring injury during the closing stages of Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Tottenham at the Emirates on Wednesday.
Doubts over Saliba’s availability deepened when he was absent from Friday’s final training session. Speaking about the situation, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed the decision on Saliba’s involvement would hinge on a medical assessment later in the day:
“We have a few decisions to make this afternoon with the medical staff to determine whether they’re ready for this game or the next one,” Arteta said.
If Saliba is ruled out, Jakub Kiwior is likely to step in and partner Gabriel at the heart of the defense. Arsenal’s defensive line is already stretched thin, with Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu sidelined through injury. Additionally, Riccardo Calafiori, who missed the squad against Tottenham, is not expected to return.
Myles Lewis-Skelly, a product of Arsenal’s academy, may continue to fill in at left-back after an impressive performance in the Spurs game.
Traditionally a central midfielder, Lewis-Skelly’s transition to the new role has been praised by Arteta:
“When I saw him, I thought this position suited him perfectly. He adapted instantly and has shown great personality and qualities in this role,” Arteta said.
Arsenal currently sit four points behind league leaders Liverpool, who face Brentford on Saturday. Meanwhile, Aston Villa, led by Unai Emery, are pushing for a top-four finish, sitting seventh in the table and just three points behind fourth-placed Newcastle. This high-stakes clash could prove pivotal for both teams’ aspirations this season.