Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is facing a defensive nightmare ahead of his side's season-defining clash with Manchester City, with both William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli in a race against time to be fit.
Defensive Rock Faces Fitness Battle
The potentially devastating blow comes as French centre-back Saliba, who has been instrumental in Arsenal's title charge, continues to struggle with a back injury that forced him off during Thursday's Europa League defeat to Sporting CP.
Initial assessments suggest the 22-year-old could be sidelined for several weeks, placing his participation in the crucial Etihad Stadium encounter in serious doubt. Saliba's absence would represent a monumental setback for the Gunners, given his commanding presence in defence throughout their remarkable campaign.
Double Trouble for Arteta
To compound Arteta's selection headache, Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli is also facing a fitness battle after being substituted with a worrying ankle injury during the same European fixture.
The electrifying forward, who has netted 13 Premier League goals this season, was seen leaving the Emirates Stadium on crutches and wearing a protective boot - hardly encouraging signs with the City clash looming.
"We have some issues," Arteta admitted post-match. "We have to wait and see how they evolve. It's too early to make any definitive conclusions."
Title Hopes Hang in the Balance
The potential absence of two key players could dramatically alter the dynamics of a match that many are billing as a potential Premier League title decider. Arsenal currently sit five points clear of City but having played two additional games, making victory at the Etihad essential to maintain their championship ambitions.
Should Saliba be unavailable, Rob Holding would likely partner Gabriel Magalhães in central defence - a combination that hasn't inspired the same confidence throughout the season. Meanwhile, Martinelli's potential absence would deprive Arsenal of their most potent wide threat against a City defence that has looked vulnerable at times.
With the international break providing some breathing room, Arsenal medical staff will work tirelessly to get both players ready for what could be the most important 90 minutes of their season.
