Arsenal receives their worst ever news in the Premier League title race with City

Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes have taken a significant blow after the news that William Saliba and Oleksandr Zinchenko have been ruled out for the remainder of the season as per The Athletic. The Gunners are currently second on the 2022/23 Premier League table with 81 points after 35 games, closely following first-placed Manchester City which has 82 points plus one game in hand.

Saliba, who has been a key performer in Arsenal’s sustained push for their first top-flight title since 2004, sustained a back issue in the Europa League last-16 defeat by Sporting Lisbon in March. The French defender has been impressive this season, forming a solid partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes at the heart of Arsenal’s defence.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 01: William Saliba of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on October 01, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Zinchenko, on loan from Manchester City, was forced off during Sunday’s win at Newcastle United with a calf problem. The Ukrainian left back has been an important player for Arsenal this season, providing energy and creativity in defence.

The loss of both players is a huge blow to Arsenal’s title aspirations. With just three games remaining in the season, every point is crucial as they look to close the gap on Manchester City. The Gunners will now have to rely on their squad depth to see them through to the end of the season.

Manager Mikel Arteta will have to make some tough decisions regarding his team selection for their upcoming fixtures. He will need to find suitable replacements for Saliba and Zinchenko while also ensuring that his team maintains its momentum.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – APRIL 26: Oleksandr Zinchenko of Arsenal, applauds the fans after the team’s defeat in the Premier League match between Manchester City and Arsenal FC at Etihad Stadium on April 26, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsenal fans will be hoping that their team can overcome this setback and continue their impressive form in the final stretch of the season. The Gunners have been playing some excellent football this season and have shown that they are capable of challenging for the title.

However, with Manchester City still holding a slight advantage at the top of the table, every game is now a must-win for Arsenal if they want to lift the Premier League trophy. The loss of Saliba and Zinchenko will undoubtedly make that task even more difficult, but the Gunners will be determined to give it their all in the remaining games of the season.