Mikel Arteta has delivered a mixed bag of injury updates concerning Arsenal's first-choice central defenders, casting uncertainty over his defensive options for the midweek Premier League fixture.
Saliba's Race Against Time for Brentford Clash
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday morning, the Arsenal manager provided a more hopeful outlook on William Saliba. The 24-year-old French international, who missed the starting line-up against Chelsea after picking up a knock in training, could be in contention for the visit of Brentford on Wednesday evening.
Arteta described Saliba's latest issue as "a matter of days", contrasting it with the ankle injury that sidelined him earlier this season. "The ankle one was a really random and very unlucky action that kept him out for a few weeks," Arteta explained. "This one as well, very bizarre. But hopefully it will be a matter of days." The manager confirmed the club would assess his fitness following a final training session.
Gabriel Facing Longer Lay-Off After Thigh Injury
The news was less encouraging for Saliba's defensive partner, Gabriel Magalhaes. The Brazilian centre-back is recovering from a thigh injury sustained while on international duty last month and faces a significantly longer absence.
When asked for a timeline, Arteta responded succinctly: "Big Gabi is doing very well but that's weeks as well." This suggests the defender could potentially be ruled out until after the Christmas period, dealing a substantial blow to the league leaders' defensive stability.
Deputies Step Up as Squad Slowly Heals
In the absence of the established pairing, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie were pressed into service during the 1-1 draw with Chelsea and may be required again against Brentford. Arteta praised the squad's attitude in coping with a lengthy injury list that has tested their depth this season.
There is brighter news elsewhere in the treatment room. Arteta confirmed that forward Leandro Trossard is also just "a matter of days" away from a return, while Gabriel Jesus continues to build match sharpness after his own long-term lay-off.
Another key absentee, Kai Havertz, is also progressing. The German, out since the opening weekend of the campaign, is now described as a "matter of weeks" from returning. Arteta expressed his eagerness to reintegrate the player, stating: "I think it's going to be a massive boost for the team. His playing record is phenomenal... I can't wait to have him back."
The Gunners, who remain six points clear at the Premier League summit after the Chelsea draw, will hope to navigate this defensive crisis and maintain their momentum as the festive fixture schedule intensifies.
