Arsenal run risk of ruining William Saliba's future with Man City decision

William Saliba is at risk of picking up a more serious injury if he features in Arsenal’s clash against Manchester City, it has been claimed.

The Frenchman has missed four weeks of action after limping off during Arsenal’s Europa League clash against Sporting at the Emirates in March.

And his absence has coincided with a blip in form for Mikel Arteta’s men. The north London club have squandered two-goal leads to draw in each of the last two Premier League games.

And in that time their lead over Manchester City at the Premier League summit has been halved to just four points, having played a game more than their rivals.

With Arsenal and City due to meet next Wednesday for a game that will likely determine the course of the title, Saliba is facing a battle to be fit.

The defender is entering a crucial period in his recovery from the lower back complaint, and the next few days are key in determining his availability for Friday’s game against Southampton and Wednesday’s clash at the Etihad.

Saliba could have “substantial problem”

The Mail Online claim that Saliba’s injury requires day-to-day management, though there is hope the France international can step up his rehabilitation imminently.

Indeed, Arteta indicated last Friday that the centre-back is expected to recommence training on the grass this week.

The publication claims Gunners medics are taking a cautious approach to his recovery. This is because the nature of the injury means accelerating the recovery process could “create a more substantial issue in the future.”

However, given Saliba's importance to Arsenal's hopes of claiming their first Premier League title in 19 years, there is reportedly an acknowledgement that having him available as quickly as possible could be worth the risk.

Saliba is also said to be determined to prove his fitness, particularly for the potential title decider against City, despite the consequences of aggravating the injury.

There is allegedly an acknowledgement within the Arsenal camp that the City game could decide the destination of the Premier League title and having Saliba feature would provide the Gunners with a major boost.