Mikel Arteta's Premier League title ambitions have been dealt a significant blow as Arsenal face an escalating injury crisis ahead of their crucial showdown with Manchester City. The Gunners could be without two key players for Wednesday's potential title-deciding encounter at the Etihad Stadium.
Defensive Worries Mount for Arteta
William Saliba's absence continues to haunt Arsenal's backline, with the French defender still struggling to recover from the back injury that has kept him sidelined since March. The 22-year-old's importance to Arsenal's defensive structure cannot be overstated, with the team's title challenge appearing to unravel since his injury during Europa League action against Sporting CP.
"We're still hoping," Arteta told reporters when pressed on Saliba's availability. "He's working extremely hard with the medical team, but back injuries are complex and we cannot take any risks with his long-term fitness."
Martinelli's Race Against Time
Further compounding Arteta's selection headache, Brazilian forward Gabriel Martinelli remains a major doubt after missing the recent 3-3 draw against Southampton. The electrifying winger sustained an ankle injury during Arsenal's Europa League exit and has failed to recover in time for training sessions this week.
Martinelli's potential absence would represent another significant blow to Arsenal's attacking threat, with the 21-year-old having contributed 15 goals and 5 assists in an outstanding individual campaign.
Title Hopes Hang in the Balance
The timing of these injury concerns couldn't be worse for the North London club, who travel to face a Manchester City side that has won their last 15 home matches across all competitions. Without Saliba's commanding presence in defence and Martinelli's penetrative runs in attack, Arsenal face a monumental task to keep their title dreams alive.
Arteta's men currently hold a five-point advantage over City, but Pep Guardiola's team have two games in hand, making Wednesday's encounter potentially decisive in the Premier League title race.
Arsenal medical staff are working around the clock to give both players every chance of featuring, but with just 48 hours remaining until kickoff, the odds appear stacked against the Gunners having their key men available for what could be their most important match of the season.
