Arteta reveals update on William Saliba starting vs Newcastle United

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that defender William Saliba will not be available for their upcoming match against Newcastle United at St James Park on Sunday. Saliba has been out of action since sustaining an injury in Arsenal’s defeat to Sporting Lisbon in the UEFA Europa League a month ago.

Speaking to Arsenal media, Arteta said, “He’s feeling better every single day but he’s still not been able to have any activity around the first-team, so we don’t expect him to be with us [at Newcastle]. It’s about the healing process. Pain-wise and with things that he can do now off the pitch, I think he is in a good place, but we have to build his capacity again to have the right impact, the right load and be in good condition to train and play for the team.”

Saliba’s absence will be a blow for Arsenal as they continue their title race. The Gunners are currently second on the 2022/23 Premier League table with 78 points after 34 games but are closely following first-placed Manchester City which has 79 points plus one game in hand.

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 06: William Saliba of Arsenal is challenged by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC at Stamford Bridge on November 06, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Newcastle United have also been impressive this season as they are currently in third position on the table with 65 points. The Magpies will be looking to continue their good form and secure a win against Arsenal.

Despite Saliba’s injury setback, Arteta remains hopeful that he will return before the end of the season. “We are not yet ruling him out for the season because we are always hopeful and players are always pushing to play but if that is the case then we will announce that. Hopefully that will not be the case,” he said.

Saliba joined Arsenal from Saint-Etienne in July 2019 but spent last season on loan at Marseille. The 21-year-old has made 27 league appearances for Arsenal this season before his injury.

Arsenal will need all their players fit and available as they look to secure their first Premier League title since 2004. With tough fixtures against Chelsea and Manchester City still to come, the Gunners will need to be at their best if they are to lift the trophy at the end of the season.