Gabriel Martinelli Ruled Out, William Saliba Doubtful for Arsenal’s Burnley Trip

Mikel Arteta confirms Gabriel Martinelli is out with injury and William Saliba faces a late test before Arsenal crucial Premier League clash with Burnley.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Gabriel Martinelli will miss the upcoming Premier League trip to Burnley due to injury, while William Saliba remains a major doubt. The update adds fresh uncertainty to Arsenal’s defensive setup ahead of Saturday’s encounter at Turf Moor.

Arteta delivered the news during his Friday press conference, saying:

Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop

Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.

“Martinelli is still out. Saliba, we still have to wait and see. The rest are still getting closer, in the right direction.”

Both Martinelli and Saliba sustained knocks during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace last weekend, and neither featured in the midweek Carabao Cup victory over Brighton. While Saliba continues to undergo assessment, Martinelli has been officially ruled out as he recovers from a minor muscle issue.

The Brazilian winger’s absence limits Arsenal’s options in attack. Leandro Trossard or Eberechi Eze could step in to fill the left-wing role, adding creativity and width in Martinelli’s absence.

Defensive Dilemma for Arteta

Saliba’s uncertain status poses a bigger challenge. The French centre-back has been pivotal to Arsenal’s solid defensive form this season, and his potential absence could force Arteta to reshuffle his backline.

If Saliba doesn’t make the squad, Christian Mosquera  may partner Gabriel Magalhães in central defence. The manager’s tactical flexibility will be tested against a Burnley side that has rediscovered confidence, winning their last two games.

Despite ongoing injury issues, Arsenal remain in commanding form, having gone unbeaten in their last eight games and leading the Premier League by four points. The trip to Burnley offers an opportunity to extend their lead and maintain pressure on chasing rivals.

Arteta’s men have shown resilience in recent weeks, grinding out results even without several first-team stars. Maintaining that momentum could prove decisive in the title race.

Arteta also shared updates on Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Noni Madueke, confirming all four remain sidelined but are making good progress in recovery. None are expected to feature this weekend.

Arsenal fans will be hoping Saliba passes his late fitness test, but with Martinelli ruled out, squad depth will again be crucial. Turf Moor awaits, and Arteta’s side will need focus and intensity to secure another vital three points.

Want more Arsenal updates? Visit our homepage.