Injury to William Saliba Disrupts Arsenal Title Bid
Arsenal’s promising defender, William Saliba, who played a pivotal role in their recent 1-0 victory over Manchester City, has withdrawn from the France squad due to a toe injury, potentially impacting Mikel Arteta’s title ambitions. The French national team confirmed his absence and named Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo as his replacement.
The statement from the France national team read, “William Saliba is not able to participate in the gathering of the French team. The Arsenal defender suffers from pain in his right big toe. He will remain available to his club to treat this chronic injury.” The decision to replace Saliba was made after consulting with the French team doctor, Dr. Franck Le Gall.
Saliba’s performance against City was commendable, as he effectively neutralized Erling Haaland, preventing the prolific striker from registering a single shot on target during the game. This victory elevated Arsenal to the top of the Premier League standings, level on points with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Looking ahead, Arsenal is set to face a resurgent Chelsea after the international break. With over a week until the crucial encounter, manager Mikel Arteta is hopeful that Saliba can regain full fitness to bolster the defense.
Saliba has played a crucial role in Arsenal’s league campaign, particularly last season. In the 27 league matches that he started during the title charge, Arsenal managed to keep clean sheets in 11 of them. However, after his injury, the team struggled defensively, conceding goals in nine out of their last nine games, allowing Manchester City to secure a third consecutive title.
Reflecting on his injury and its impact on the title race last season, Saliba expressed his frustration, saying, “Of course, it was really painful because I watched my team play every game, the most important of the season, and I was not able to play. Of course, it hurt me. Of course, I could have helped my team to maybe win the Premier League, but we never know.”
While Saliba has become a mainstay in the Arsenal squad, he is yet to establish himself as a first-choice player for the French national team. Currently, Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konate are ahead of him in the pecking order.
Saliba’s recovery and return to form will be closely monitored by both Arsenal and France as they aim to achieve success in their respective competitions.
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By- Sahiba Suri