Mikel Arteta, Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba (Photo by Ryan Pierse, Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Arsenal have had a number of injury problems that have hurt them this season, with Bukayo Saka perhaps the most notable, although there is arguably an even more important player in their squad that they cannot afford to be without.
That player is William Saliba, with the French centre-back proving to be an absolute colossus for the Gunners since returning from a series of loan spells to become a first-team regular in 2022/23.
Since then, Arsenal have conceded an average of less than one goal per game when Saliba plays, compared to less than two goals per game when he is out – a remarkable difference that will cause Mikel Arteta a major headache…
0.8 – Since the start of 2022-23, Arsenal have conceded 0.8 goals per game in the Premier League when William Saliba has played (85 games), compared to 1.7 per game when he has not played (13 games). Integral. pic.twitter.com/6DT8ybbOQA
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) January 18, 2025
Saliba is clearly one of the best defenders in the world and he was lost for Arsenal yesterday when he conceded two rather sloppy goals against Aston Villa.
AFC had led 2-0 but let that lead slip, drawing 2-2 at home to Villa and potentially dropping out of the title race after Liverpool’s late win away to Brentford.
Arsenal need William Saliba back as soon as possible
It’s still not clear how serious is Saliba’s injuryor how long he will be out, but Arsenal must hope they have better luck with him than they had with Saka, who is nowhere near a return anytime soon.
Gabriel Magalhaes is also a world-class centre-backbut his partnership with Saliba is crucial, with others such as Jurrien Timber or Jakub Kiwior not having the same high standard in that position.
Arsenal are also without Martin Odegaard this season, with the Norway international missing a number of games earlier in the season and not looking as impressive since returning.
Gabriel Jesus is also definitely out for the rest of the season, while Ben White is another big name who has missed a number of games.
If Saliba can return soon then it could be a big boost for Arsenal, but if this ends up being another serious injury then it could be season-defining.
