William Saliba delivered masterclass vs Man City despite needing injection hours before kick-off

William Saliba delivered a defensive masterclass against Manchester City despite needing an injection just hours before kick-off.

Saliba starred as Arsenal beat Manchester City at the Emirates on Sunday as Gabriel Martinelli scored a late strike to earn his side a big victory.

The game was almost overshadowed by the ugly scenes following the final whistle as Kyle Walker clashed with Arsenal set-piece coach Nicolas Jover.

The Gunners, meanwhile, remain unbeaten in the Premier League, having won six of their opening eight games this season.

And they have Saliba to thank for their impressive start to the 2023/24 campaign.

The 22-year-old has been a rock in defence and produced heroics against Man City as he kept Erling Haaland quiet.

A stunning compilation of his outing against the Blues shows he completely bossed it at the back.

His performance is even more impressive considering he needed an injection before kick-off.

According to French reporter Saber Desfarges, the Arsenal centre-back needed an injection to allow him to play through the pain.

So, whilst carrying a toe injury, he won all of his duels, committed no fouls, was not dribbled past and had a passing accuracy of 97 per cent.

William Saliba celebrates Arsenal's victory over Manchester City. Image: Getty

Saliba's toe injury, however, has seen him withdraw from the France squad ahead of their fixtures against the Netherlands and Scotland.

He'll remain with Arsenal over the international break so he can undergo treatment for his injury.

Mikel Arteta will be hoping to have a fully fit Saliba when Arsenal resume their league campaign in a London derby against Chelsea on October 21.

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