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Arsenal's Defense Shaken: Saliba Injured Before Chelsea Clash
30 Nov
Summary
- Saliba sustained a knock in training prior to the Chelsea match.
- Gabriel is already out with a thigh injury until December end.
- Arsenal faces nine games in the next 39, starting Wednesday.
Arsenal's defensive lineup faced an unprecedented situation on Sunday during their Premier League fixture against Chelsea. For only the second time in 162 matches, neither Gabriel nor William Saliba were available to play. Saliba was a late absentee due to a knock sustained in training, while Gabriel remains sidelined with a thigh injury until late December.
This defensive reshuffling saw Piero Hincapié partnered by youngster Cristhian Mosquera at the back. Manager Mikel Arteta downplayed the severity of Saliba's injury, stating it was not major but significant enough to prevent his participation. The last instance of both key defenders being absent was on the final day of the previous season.
The timing of these defensive absences is particularly challenging for Arsenal, with a demanding schedule ahead. The team is set to play nine matches within the next 39 days, beginning with a clash against Brentford on Wednesday, putting further strain on the remaining squad.
