Arsenal defender William Saliba is not expected to return to fitness before the potential title decider against Manchester City next week, according to reports.
The Frenchman has been struggling with a back problem that has kept him out of action for well over a month and it appears he is set to remain on the sidelines.
Considering the Gunners’ defence has been pretty poor without Saliba in recent weeks, supporters on Twitter are extremely disappointed that he is unlikely to face City:
NOOOOOOO
— Liam 🇮🇪 🇲🇾 (@AFCIiam) April 17, 2023
Season over
— 🚷 (@afc_corn) April 17, 2023
Honestly, if the City game's not an option, just let him have the surgery in time for next season 😞
— Philarsopher (@philarsopher) April 17, 2023
Heartbroken
— GP II (@GaryNotPaytonII) April 17, 2023
Holding against Halaand, good luck to everyone attending that game, am not boarding.
— Bernhard (@amonly_Ben) April 17, 2023
It's so over 😭
— ZYK 🇵🇸🇺🇦 (@ZYK04_AFC) April 17, 2023
IT'S OVERRRRRRR
— Abdul🎭 (@abdul__aal) April 17, 2023
We’re screwed if he doesn’t play against City
— Guillermo Brito (@RedVGooner04) April 17, 2023
If Saliba isn’t there at the Etihad, then it is done. Good to know so I don’t have to worry anymore.
— 17 (@_Didan__) April 17, 2023
With it being such a pivotal game, there is an argument for rushing the centre-half back into action even if he isn’t 100% fit. However, it could be counterproductive, especially when you take into account he will be facing the likes of Erling Haaland.
Fans will simply have to hope that, if Saliba doesn’t make it, the likes of Rob Holding and Gabriel can step up to the plate and put in a memorable performance.
