Arsenal’s Defensive Woes: Saliba’s Injury and a Missed Opportunity Against Aston Villa
In the world of football, few things are as nerve-wracking for a manager as the uncertainty surrounding a key player’s injury. Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta finds himself in such a predicament, admitting he is “very worried” about William Saliba‘s injury. The talented defender was conspicuously absent from the squad during Arsenal’s recent 2-2 draw against Aston Villa on Saturday.
Arsenal’s inability to secure all three points was a bitter pill to swallow, especially as they had been leading 2-0. The absence of Saliba, who suffered a hamstring injury during the 2-1 victory over Tottenham earlier in the week, only compounded the frustration.
The France international is a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defense. His absence due to a back injury in the latter half of the 2022-23 season was a significant factor in Arsenal’s struggle to keep pace with Manchester City in the title race. Arteta’s concern is palpable as he awaits further tests to determine the extent of Saliba’s injury.
“I think tomorrow we will have more information, we will have more tests on him and we will be more clear about it,” Arteta said. “For sure [we are worried], especially with the numbers we have in the squad and looking at our bench. Very worried.”
With Saliba sidelined, Arteta had to make some tactical adjustments. Jurriën Timber was moved to the center alongside Gabriel, while midfielder Thomas Partey took on the role of a makeshift right-back.
Arsenal seemed to be in control with goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz. However, Aston Villa mounted a comeback, with Ollie Watkins equalizing after Youri Tielemans headed his side back into contention.
Arteta praised his team’s overall performance but was critical of the defensive lapse that led to Villa’s second goal. Matty Cash delivered a cross that Watkins converted with a stunning volley.
“We can fault ourselves as well because defending the way we did especially with one of the goals, it cannot be part of our game if we want to be at the highest level in this country,” Arteta said. “The rest, what else can I ask the team to do against a really good side?”
The importance of Saliba to Arsenal cannot be overstated. With him in the lineup, Arsenal boasts a 72% win rate, which plummets to 38% in his absence. This statistic underscores the urgency for Arteta to have Saliba back on the pitch as soon as possible.
Currently sitting in second place, Arsenal’s draw leaves them six points behind Liverpool, who also have a game in hand. Arteta hinted at potential moves in the January transfer window to bolster the squad.
- “You look at the performances, I don’t know how many teams are playing at this level in the league,” he said. “When you look at the bench, probably you say I think we are very short.”
As Arsenal fans hold their breath for positive news on Saliba’s condition, the club must navigate the challenges ahead with resilience and strategic planning.
Originally Written by: Reuters
