Alan Shearer says Arsenal are a “lesser team” without William Saliba, warning his injury could derail their Premier League title hopes.
Arsenal Premier League title hopes have taken a major hit following the injury of star defender William Saliba. The French international was forced off just minutes into Arsenal’s 1–0 defeat to Liverpool, suffering an ankle injury that could keep him out for up to four weeks.
Saliba’s absence has raised serious concerns about Arsenal’s defensive stability, especially with key fixtures on the horizon.
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Premier League legend Alan Shearer didn’t hold back in his assessment. Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said:
“Saliba has been a big player for them for a while and they’ll be a lesser team for it unfortunately.”
He emphasized that top clubs like Arsenal rarely receive sympathy when injuries strike, due to their financial power and squad depth:
“You won’t get too much sympathy because of who and what they are, the money that they’ve spent and the squad that they’ve got there.”
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Why Saliba’s Injury Matters
William Saliba has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defense. His ability to read the game, win aerial duels, and distribute the ball from the back has made him indispensable to Mikel Arteta’s system.
Without Saliba, Arsenal may struggle to maintain their defensive shape, especially against high-pressing teams like Manchester City and Newcastle.
Arsenal’s next match against Nottingham Forest will test their depth. Forest, now managed by Ange Postecoglou, are showing signs of resurgence. Shearer even suggested they could be contenders in European competition.
William Saliba injury could be a turning point in Arsenal’s season. With crucial matches ahead and limited defensive options, Arteta must find a way to adapt quickly.
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