Arteta Reveals Why Saliba Missed Chelsea Clash, Plays Down Injury Fears
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shed light on the absence of key defender William Saliba from the squad to face Chelsea in Sunday’s Premier League showdown.
Saliba, who has been one of the most consistent performers for the Gunners this season, was left out of the matchday squad, forcing Arteta to pair Piero Hincapié and Cristhian Mosquera in central defence for the crucial London derby.
According to the Arsenal boss, the Frenchman felt “uncomfortable” during training and was not cleared to feature.
“Yesterday in training he was uncomfortable, so we need to explore a little bit more what happened,” Arteta said moments before kick-off at Stamford Bridge.
“I don’t think it’s something major, but enough not to be involved in the game.”
Arsenal head into the clash aiming to stretch their lead at the top of the Premier League table to nine points, making Saliba’s absence a significant blow—yet one Arteta hopes will not linger beyond today.
OPINION: Arsenal’s Title March Depends on Managing Moments Like This
Saliba’s omission may have sparked panic among Arsenal fans—after all, he has grown into arguably the most influential defender in the league. But Arteta’s calm explanation shows a manager who has learned the value of protection over desperation.
In seasons past, Arsenal might have risked playing an injured key player in a high-stakes match, only to pay the price later. This time, however, Arteta is choosing the long game: rotating smartly, trusting his squad depth, and prioritizing the marathon over the sprint.
It also signals a new level of confidence within the team. No longer do Arsenal crumble the moment one pillar is missing. Instead, players like Hincapié and Mosquera are stepping up into big moments—an evolution fans have been waiting years to see.
If Arsenal truly want to be champions, handling setbacks like this one with composure and clarity is exactly the kind of mentality required.
And if Saliba’s issue truly is minor, as Arteta insists, then this might just be a small bump in an otherwise powerful title charge.
