Arsenal will be missing a key player for their Premier League match against Liverpool on Sunday, October 27. Mikel Arteta’s side, already struggling in their title challenge after a 2-0 loss to Bournemouth on October 19, currently sits third in the league, four points behind leaders Liverpool as they prepare for the match at the Emirates.
The Gunners have been without captain Martin Ødegaard since he suffered an injury during international duty in early September. Additionally, key forward Bukayo Saka missed last weekend’s defeat due to a hamstring injury incurred while playing for England.
Following the Bournemouth match, Arteta voiced uncertainty about the decision to send off William Saliba, who will also miss the Liverpool match. “The decision has been made, so that’s it,” Arteta stated, explaining that it was a quick judgment with a striker on Saliba’s back. Saliba received an initial yellow card from referee Rob Jones, but his foul on forward Evanilson, who was on a breakaway, was later upgraded to a red card after a review.
Saliba’s suspension will only affect the match against Liverpool, as he will be eligible to return for Arsenal’s Champions League game against Shakhtar Donetsk. While Arteta’s defensive choices are limited, Jurrien Timber might step in at right-back, enabling Ben White to move into Saliba’s position alongside Gabriel, though Timber’s fitness is still uncertain.
Sky Sports has confirmed that Arsenal will not appeal Saliba’s red card, despite some discussion surrounding the decision, as it took place near the halfway line rather than closer to goalkeeper David Raya’s goal.
