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Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions - and Liverpool’s chances of retaining the trophy - have both been dealt a setback following William Saliba's injury blow, raising questions about his availability
The French defender has been central to Mikel Arteta’s plans, and his absence could have ripple effects across the title race, affecting both the Gunners and their closest rivals at the top of the table. The central defender was forced off the pitch just minutes into Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool due to an ankle injury.
Saliba subsequently withdrew from international duty with the French national team after limping off the field. The 24-year-old could now be sidelined for up to a month, leaving Arsenal to regroup ahead of the Champions League and its post-international break games.
Earlier this week, the French national team issued a statement regarding his withdrawal saying: "William Saliba, who started for Arsenal against Liverpool on Sunday, was forced off in the fifth minute.
"He will not be able to honor his call-up for the first training camp of the season.
"He is suffering from a sprained left ankle. After a discussion with Franck Le Gall, the French team doctor, Didier Deschamps confirmed the unavailability of William Saliba. The national coach has decided to call up Benjamin Pavard as a reinforcement."
Saliba is expected to miss upcoming matches against Nottingham Forest, Athletic Bilbao, Manchester City, and a Carabao Cup tie with Port Vale.
Should his recovery take longer than anticipated, he could also be sidelined for games against Newcastle, Olympiacos, and West Ham.
Summer signing Cristhian Mosquera, 21, came on to replace Saliba during the Liverpool clash. The Spanish defender was acquired from Valencia for a reported $18 million.
Saliba's injury could have implications for Liverpool's title race heading into the October international break, which the 24-year-old could also possibly miss.
It will more than likely mean that Ibrahima Konate will be expected to play more minutes for Didier Deschamps' side, which increases his likelihood of him picking up an injury.
Konate delivered a solid performance as France kicked off its World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win over Ukraine on Friday.
The Liverpool defender has had a challenging international year, having been substituted at half-time during March’s Nations League quarterfinal against Croatia and struggling in June’s 5-4 loss to Spain, where he earned a rare zero rating from the notoriously strict L’Equipe.
With Saliba sidelined, Konate partnered Dayot Upamecano at the heart of the French defense on Friday, earning a far more positive 6/10 rating from L’Equipe, while Upamecano’s 7/10 was the highest among France’s back five.
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