Arsenal's defensive resources were stretched to breaking point on Wednesday evening as another centre-back, Cristhian Mosquera, was forced off injured during their Premier League clash with Brentford.
Another Blow for Arteta's Backline
The Gunners were already without their first-choice defensive pairing of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba for the match at the Emirates. The situation deteriorated further when summer signing Mosquera, starting alongside Piero Hincapie, landed awkwardly after contesting an aerial duel around the 40-minute mark.
The 21-year-old Spaniard, signed from Valencia, immediately winced and hobbled before going to ground, requiring urgent treatment from the physio. After a couple of minutes, he gingerly rose to his feet and limped out of the action, unable to continue.
Arteta's Injury Update on Key Defenders
Manager Mikel Arteta had provided a mixed update on his sidelined stars in his pre-match press conference on Tuesday. Regarding Saliba, who missed the Chelsea game after a training knock, the boss was cautiously optimistic. "He had a niggle but I think it’s going to be a matter of days [until he returns]," Arteta stated, hoping the French international would be available for the weekend.
The prognosis for Gabriel was less positive. The Brazilian, suffering from a thigh injury sustained on international duty last month, faces a longer layoff. "Gabi’s doing very well but that’s weeks as well," admitted Arteta, suggesting the defender could be sidelined until after Christmas.
Implications for Crucial Villa Clash
This leaves Arsenal in a precarious position ahead of their 12.30pm kick-off against Aston Villa on Saturday. If Saliba, Gabriel, and Mosquera are all unavailable, Arteta will be forced into a major reshuffle at the back.
Jurrien Timber, who replaced Mosquera against Brentford, is the most likely candidate to deputise in central defence despite playing predominantly at right-back for Arsenal this season. Ben White is another option to partner Hincapie, as the Gunners navigate a critical period in their season with a severely depleted defensive unit.
