Arsenal’s pursuit of a treble has hit a potential snag as defensive mainstays William Saliba and Jurrien Timber have been forced to withdraw from international duty due to injury.
Here is the breakdown of the situation and how it impacts their respective national teams:
The Arsenal Injury Report
- William Saliba (France): Despite playing the full 90 minutes in the EFL Cup final loss to Manchester City, Saliba is grappling with a persistent left ankle injury. The pain was reportedly too severe for him to join Les Bleus, requiring at least 10 days of rest.
- Jurrien Timber (Netherlands): Timber was unable to recover in time for the international break, leading to his removal from Ronald Koeman’s squad.
National Team Call-ups
The absences have opened the door for two defenders to step onto the international stage:
- Maxence Lacroix (Crystal Palace): Replacing Saliba, the 25-year-old earns his first-ever call-up for France’s friendlies against Brazil and Colombia.
- Lutsharel Geertruida (Sunderland): Fresh off a 90-minute performance in a derby win over Newcastle, the Sunderland defender replaces Timber for the Netherlands’ fixtures against Norway and Ecuador.
Impact on the Season’s Climax
Mikel Arteta faces a nervous wait as Arsenal maintains a nine-point lead at the top of the Premier League. With the FA Cup and Champions League still in play, the Gunners are hopeful both defenders will be available for the FA Cup quarter-final against Southampton on April 4th.
| Player | Injury | International Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| William Saliba | Recurring Ankle Issue | Maxence Lacroix (France) |
| Jurrien Timber | Unspecified Recovery | Lutsharel Geertruida (Netherlands) |
