Arsenal drew 1-1 against Brentford in what was a crucial EPL fixture, and the absence of William Saliba in such a crucial Premier League game has made fans worried if the French defender has suffered any major injury. The absence of Saliba was truly felt against Brentford, as Mikel Arteta's side struggled without him and failed to earn all 3 points against Brentford.
Together with Gabriel, Saliba has formed arguably the best defensive partnership in world football at the moment, and they are a huge reason behind Arsenal's huge success this season so far. Saliba has been a regular for Arsenal this season in the Premier League this season, and thus his absence against Brentford was quite a surprise for many Arsenal fans.
Why did William Saliba miss the Premier League game against Brentford? Mikel Arteta reveals the reason
Before the game against Brentford, Mikel Arteta revealed the following in Arsenal's official X page regarding William Saliba
"This morning Wilo wasn’t feeling good so he’s ill, and he’s at home. Just short-term.”
Arsenal fans will undoubtedly have a huge sigh of relief after hearing this news, as any major injury to an integral player like Saliba would be the final thing that Arteta and the fans would want. The Gunners arguably have the best squad in the Premier League at the moment, and they have enough quality centre-backs as well who could fill in if Saliba isn't available. However, as seen against Brentford, Arsenal struggled without their unstoppable Gabriel-Saliba defensive partnership. Thus, Arteta and the club would want to have him back as soon as possible.
The last time William Saliba suffered a major injury during a Premier League campaign is still remembered widely by Arsenal, as many believe that was the turning point of that season which resulted in Arsenal losing momentum in the title race and Manchester City eventually overtaking them. Arteta would be hoping that history doesn't repeat, and Saliba along with his teammates can finally end the wait of Arsenal winning the Premier League title again.
