Arteta dealt major setback as key 21-year-old player uncertain for upcoming West Ham clash

Arsenal’s title charge has hit a stumbling block as their key defender William Saliba remains a doubt for their crucial Premier League clash against West Ham this weekend. With only eight games remaining in the season, Mikel Arteta’s side is determined to secure their first league title in almost two decades. However, their close rivals Manchester City are in hot pursuit, trailing by just six points but with a game in hand and a superior goal difference.

Arsenal has already faced a slew of injury woes in recent months, with Takehiro Tomiyasu, Mohamed Elneny, and Eddie Nketiah out of action, but the absence of Saliba has undoubtedly been the biggest blow to the Gunners’ title charge.

The French international has been instrumental in Arsenal’s success this season, and his back injury, which he sustained in the Europa League loss to Sporting CP last month, has kept him out of action for the past three matches.

The nature of his injury is such that Arsenal is being cautious about his recovery and reluctant to put a timeframe on his return.

The Daily Mail has reported that Saliba’s fitness remains a doubt for Sunday’s London derby, adding to the concerns of Arteta, who is already grappling with a string of injuries to his first-team players. The absence of Saliba in their backline could prove to be a significant setback for Arsenal as they look to secure a vital win against West Ham and maintain their lead at the top of the table.

As the title race heats up, Arsenal fans will be keeping a close eye on Saliba’s recovery and hoping for his swift return to the team.