William Saliba Ruled Out of Arsenal’s Brighton Clash With Ankle Injury

Arsenal defender William Saliba misses Brighton trip after ankle injury sustained in win over Chelsea.

Arsenal have been dealt a late defensive blow ahead of their Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion, with William Saliba ruled out due to an ankle injury.

The French centre-back picked up the problem during Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium. Saliba played the entire match and scored the opening goal from a corner, but he did not recover in time for the trip to the Amex Stadium.

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Mikel Arteta revealed the setback in his pre-match press conference, explaining that Saliba twisted his ankle during the Chelsea win.

“He turned his ankle against Chelsea. He managed to finish the game somehow, but he was too sore to play today,” Arteta confirmed.

The manager indicated the decision was precautionary and suggested the injury should not sideline the 24-year-old for an extended period.

Arsenal also confirmed the update in their official team news, announcing that Cristhian Mosquera would step into the starting XI alongside Gabriel Magalhães.

Mosquera Handed Opportunity

In Saliba’s absence, summer signing Cristhian Mosquera partners Gabriel in central defence. The 21-year-old Spaniard, who arrived from Valencia in 2025, has impressed in limited opportunities this season.

Arteta has consistently expressed confidence in the young defender’s ability to deputise when required.

“He’s been great,” the Arsenal boss said. “Obviously Wilo is in the partnership that we normally play, but Cristhian has shown that we can fully trust him.”

With Arsenal chasing the title, squad depth will be critical during the run-in — and Mosquera now has the chance to prove his reliability on a crucial away night.

Saliba has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers this season, forming a formidable partnership with Gabriel at the heart of the defence. The Gunners currently sit five points clear at the top of the Premier League table.

A win on the south coast would strengthen their grip on the title race as the campaign enters its decisive phase.

Other Team News

Gabriel Martinelli returns to the starting lineup on the left wing, replacing Leandro Trossard. Declan Rice features despite carrying a minor knock from the Chelsea match.

Captain Martin Ødegaard stays sidelined with a knee issue, while Kai Havertz takes a spot among the substitutes after returning to training.

Brighton have proven difficult opponents at home this season, combining technical quality with tactical discipline. Arteta acknowledged the challenge, describing the Seagulls as  “a very, very good side” with a clear identity that makes them “always a very tough opponent.”

Saliba’s absence does not last long-term, but it arrives at a delicate moment in the season. Arsenal must cope without one of their defensive pillars, a test that could shape their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts.

Kick-off at the Amex Stadium sees the Gunners aiming to extend their lead at the summit — and to show that their depth can withstand setbacks when it matters most.

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