Arsenal's Premier League title charge faces a fresh defensive test as they prepare to host Brentford on Wednesday, with manager Mikel Arteta sweating over the fitness of several key players.
Gunners' Defensive Headache Ahead of Brentford Visit
The league leaders, who remain five points clear of Manchester City, were held to a 1-1 draw by ten-man Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Mikel Merino's equaliser cancelled out Trevoh Chalobah's opener, but the dropped points were compounded by concerns in defence.
Central to those concerns is William Saliba, who missed the Chelsea clash entirely after picking up a knock in training. Arteta confirmed the Frenchman faces a late fitness test, stating: "I think he has another test tomorrow to see the extent of that feeling, that sensation that he had, then we'll know more."
He is joined on the doubtful list by forward Leandro Trossard, who was forced off during last week's Champions League match against Bayern Munich. The Belgian's availability remains uncertain.
The Gunners' confirmed absentees are more clear-cut. Defender Gabriel remains sidelined and is not expected back until later this month, while Kai Havertz continues his recovery from a knee issue. Arteta offered a positive update, however, saying: "Not yet, but they are getting closer and closer, so we are very positive with both of them."
Brentford's Injury Woes for London Derby
The visiting Bees arrive at the Emirates Stadium grappling with a significant injury crisis of their own. Three players are ruled out with long-term problems.
Midfielder Josh DaSilva, a former Arsenal academy player, is recovering from an ACL injury and is targeting a return at the start of 2026. The club has also been dealt a severe blow with Antoni Milambo and Fabio Carvalho both sidelined with serious knee injuries until next season.
Regarding Carvalho's recent operation, Brentford boss Keith Andrews commented: "Fabio had his operation yesterday, which went well. We’re delighted about that, and we’ll look after him on his journey back to fitness."
There is better news regarding key striker Thiago, who was seen limping late in their last match against Burnley. Initial assessments suggest the issue is not serious, and he is expected to be in contention to lead the line against Arsenal.
Arteta's Selection Dilemma for Crucial Clash
With Saliba and Gabriel potentially missing, Arsenal's defensive pairing from the Chelsea game—Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie—could be called upon once more. In attack, the return of Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard offers Arteta welcome alternatives, especially with Trossard a doubt and Havertz out.
This midweek fixture presents Arsenal with an opportunity to maintain or extend their advantage at the summit. However, Brentford, despite their injury list, will look to capitalise on any defensive instability in the Gunners' ranks. All eyes will be on the Emirates on Wednesday night as the title race continues to unfold.
