Arsenal’s defensive record with and without William Saliba

Arsenal have had a number of injury problems that have hurt them this season, perhaps most notably Bukayo Saka, although there is arguably a more important player in their squad that they cannot do without.

That player is William Saliba, with the French centre-back proving to be an absolute giant for Arsenal since returning from a number of loan spells to become a first-team regular in the 2022/23 season.

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Since then, Arsenal have conceded on average less than a goal per game when Saliba is playing, compared to less than two goals per game when he is out of the team – a notable difference that will cause a major headache for Mikel Arteta…

0.8 – Since the start of the 2022-23 season, 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). essential. pic.twitter.com/6DT8ybbOQA

– OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) January 18, 2025

Saliba is clearly one of the best defenders in the world and he missed Arsenal yesterday when they conceded two rather sloppy goals against Aston Villa.

The AFC were 2-0 up, but let that lead slip, drawing 2-2 at home to Villa and potentially falling out of the title race after Liverpool’s late win away to Brentford.

Arsenal need William Saliba back as soon as possible

It’s not clear yet How serious is Saliba’s injury?or how long he will be out of action, but Arsenal need to hope they have better luck with him than they had with Saka, who doesn’t look close to returning anytime soon.

Gabriel Magalhaes is also a world-class centre-backBut his partnership with Saliba is key, with others like Jurrian Temper or Jacob Kuyor not at the same high level in this position.

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Arsenal have also ruled out Martin Odegaard this season, with the Norway international missing a lot of matches earlier in the season and not looking impressive since his return.

Gabriel Jesus is also certain to be out for the rest of the season, while Ben White is another big name who has missed a lot of games.

If Saliba can return soon, it could be a huge boost for Arsenal, but if he ends up suffering another serious injury, it could be season-defining.