The French centre-back was ruled out just hours before kick-off, leaving Mikel Arteta with both Saliba and regular partner Gabriel Magalhaes, who is already sidelined.
That forced the Gunners into an entirely new combination, with summer signings Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera stepping into the heart of the defence.
Mikel Arteta on William Saliba
After the match, Arteta revealed that Saliba felt uncomfortable the day before the match and the club chose not to take any risks.
Arteta said:
“He felt uncomfortable yesterday so we need to investigate a little more into what happened. I don’t think it’s anything major, but enough to not be involved in the match.”
??? Arteta on Saliba today: “He felt uncomfortable yesterday, so we have to investigate a little more what happened”.
“I don’t think it’s anything big, but enough to not be involved in the game.” pic.twitter.com/3f6HIUCVbl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 30, 2025
Saliba has been a key figure since returning to the squad in 2022, barely missing a minute of action in the Premier League. With Gabriel set to be out for several weeks, Arsenal are determined to avoid a prolonged absence for their star defender.
The leaders now face the toughest team challenge of the season as the festive period approaches.
A reliable insider has reported that Saliba will undergo a scan tomorrow to better assess the injury.
Scan booked for Saliba.
10am. #afc
— indykaila News (@indykaila) November 30, 2025
Saliba’s importance to Arsenal
Saliba’s value to the Arsenal backline cannot be overstated. Since forming one of the most impressive defensive partnerships in the Premier League with Gabriel, his mix of blistering speed, tactical intelligence and cool composure has been fundamental to Arsenal’s title challenges.
The French international is not just a go-getter; his ability to carry the ball from the back and consistently make the right passing decision under pressure is crucial to initiating Arsenal’s attacking transitions.
His pace is particularly important. He allows the team’s full-backs to get high up the pitch and the midfield to push aggressively, knowing that Saliba can cover the space behind them.
His absence, especially alongside Gabriel, deprives the team of its primary defensive and progressive backbone, making the upcoming scan perhaps the biggest news of the week for the Gunners faithful.
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