Arsenal Dealt Crushing Blow as William Saliba's Injury Recovery Timeline Emerges

William Saliba faces the prospect of being sidelined for up to four weeks due to the ankle problem that led to his withdrawal from France's national team, according to recent reports.

The Arsenal center-back was forced off the pitch just five minutes into the Gunners' 1-0 loss to Liverpool prior to the international window, with head coach Mikel Arteta subsequently explaining that the French defender had twisted his ankle during pre-match preparations and attempted to continue despite the discomfort.

Despite his injury, Saliba was initially named in France's squad for their upcoming international matches but promptly pulled out after consultation with the team's medical staff. An official statement confirmed the player had sustained a "sprained left ankle".

Reports from L'Équipe suggest that French team officials believe Saliba won't return to action until following the October international window, meaning Arsenal could be without him for approximately four weeks.

This potential absence would represent a significant setback for Arsenal, who face a challenging run of fixtures in the upcoming period.

Arsenal's Premier League schedule includes a home fixture against Nottingham Forest next weekend, followed by Manchester City's visit seven days later. The Gunners also have an away match at Newcastle United and will host West Ham United before the next international pause.

Arteta's team looks set to start their Champions League league phase without their key defender as well. Spain's Athletic Club will be their opening opponents, with a home encounter against Greek powerhouse Olympiacos also on the horizon.

Adding to the fixture congestion is a Carabao Cup third-round tie against Port Vale, though Saliba would likely have been rested for this match regardless.

Cristhian Mosquera stepped in for Saliba during the Liverpool match and remains an option to fill the void throughout the Frenchman's recovery period, though deadline day acquisition Piero Hincapié may now be favored following his transfer from Bayer Leverkusen.

Riccardo Calafiori, who has operated at left-back this season but is equally adept in central defense, could also provide cover for Saliba, with Myles Lewis-Skelly available to slot in on the left flank if required.