Wenger Questions Saliba and Gabriel After Arsenal’s Home Defeat to Man United

Legendary Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger has openly criticized William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães following the Gunners’ dramatic 3–2 Premier League defeat to Manchester United on Sunday.

The loss at the Emirates Stadium, sealed by goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha, not only tightened the title race but also exposed rare defensive lapses from a partnership that has largely been one of Arsenal’s biggest strengths this season.

Speaking on beIN SPORTS, Wenger observed that the usually commanding centre-back duo appeared unusually unsettled against Michael Carrick’s side.

“It is the first time I feel that the central defenders were a bit more nervous and less dominant than they usually are in games,” Wenger said.

The former Arsenal boss pointed specifically to the build-up to United’s opening goal, explaining that although Martin Zubimendi made the initial error, Saliba’s decision-making also played a role.

“Saliba shouldn’t be going in front of him. He should give him support and stay behind him to have the possibility to defend the ball,” Wenger added.

Opinion: A Rare Off Day, But a Timely Warning

Wenger’s comments will sting, but they come from a place of deep understanding. Saliba and Gabriel have set incredibly high standards this season, so when they fall even slightly below that level, it becomes glaring.

This wasn’t a case of poor defending throughout the game, but rather small moments of hesitation and misjudgment—the kind that top opponents punish without mercy. Manchester United did exactly that.

However, it’s important to see this as an off day rather than a long-term concern. Every elite defensive partnership has moments where nerves creep in, especially in high-stakes matches with title implications.

What matters now is response. Arsenal have a quick opportunity to reset when they face Kairat in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, a game that could help restore confidence and rhythm at the back.

If anything, Wenger’s critique may serve as the perfect wake-up call. Champions are not defined by never making mistakes—but by how quickly they learn from them.