Arsenal Face Double Defensive Blow as Mosquera Injury Timeline Revealed While Saliba Remains Sidelined

Arsenal are concerned that defender Cristhian Mosquera may be sidelined for up to six weeks due to the ankle problem that has ruled him out of recent matches.

The summer acquisition was filling in for the injured duo of William Saliba and Gabriel during Arsenal's 2–0 victory against Brentford when he sustained a serious ankle knock and had to leave the pitch, causing disappointment for head coach Mikel Arteta.

Although comprehensive medical examinations are still pending, BBC Sport reports that Arsenal's preliminary concern is that Mosquera might require up to six weeks for full recovery, potentially keeping him unavailable until the end of January at the soonest.

Prior to Saturday's encounter at Aston Villa, Arteta acknowledged that Arsenal might need to pursue signings during the January window to tackle the persistent injury problems within his roster, particularly in the central defensive positions.

Gabriel continues to be "weeks" from returning to competitive action, though Arteta has repeatedly indicated that Saliba requires only "days" to overcome his current fitness concern.

Saliba Excluded from Aston Villa Squad

Despite such optimism, Saliba was unable to make Saturday's traveling party for the match against Unai Emery's impressive Villa side, compelling Arteta to find alternative solutions.

Piero Hincapié maintains his position in the starting eleven and will form a defensive partnership with Netherlands international Jurriën Timber, who has delivered his strongest displays on the right flank of the backline this campaign. Ben White moves into the right-back role.

The unavailability of Gabriel, Saliba and Mosquera means Arsenal lack any experienced centre-back options among the substitutes for the Villa clash. This situation led to 16-year-old Marli Salmon receiving his maiden call-up to a senior competitive squad.

There is encouraging news though. Winger Leandro Trossard has recovered sufficiently to earn a place among the substitutes following two matches on the sidelines with an injury.

Arsenal Starting Lineup vs. Aston Villa

Arsenal starting lineup vs. Aston Villa (4-3-3): Raya; White, Timber, Hincapié, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Ødegaard; Saka, Merino, Eze.

Subs: Arrizabalaga, Lewis-Skelly, Salmon, Nørgaard, Nwaneri, Trossard, Martinelli, Madueke, Gyökeres.