Arsenal Faces Villa Without Saliba as Injury Woes Mount

LONDON — Arsenal will face Aston Villa without star defender William Saliba in a crucial Premier League clash at Emirates Stadium on Saturday, Jan. 18. The French center back, who has been a linchpin in Arsenal’s league-best defense this season, was left out of the squad due to a minor injury.

Saliba, who has not missed a game through injury this campaign, reportedly suffered a tight hamstring during Arsenal’s midweek victory over Tottenham. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the absence, stating, “He couldn’t train yesterday and he wasn’t feeling good enough to play. We need to do further tests to see what has gone on.”

In Saliba’s absence, Jurrien Timber will shift to center back alongside Gabriel, while Thomas Partey will fill in at right back. Timber, who recently returned from an ACL injury, will be tasked with maintaining Arsenal’s defensive solidity. The Gunners have conceded just 19 goals in 21 league games this season, the fewest in the Premier League.

Arteta emphasized the importance of caution with Saliba, given Arsenal’s upcoming schedule and the defender’s pivotal role in their title aspirations. “We have to face it and go again,” Arteta told Sky Sports. “It’s not worth risking him.”

Arsenal’s injury concerns extend beyond Saliba, with Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori, Ben White, and Gabriel Jesus also sidelined. The absence of Saliba, however, poses a significant challenge as the Gunners aim to maintain their position at the top of the table.

Aston Villa, managed by former Arsenal boss Unai Emery, currently sit in eighth place and will look to capitalize on Arsenal’s defensive reshuffle. The match promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams vying for crucial points in the Premier League race.