What impact could Saliba injury have on defending champions?

[Getty Images] As defending champions and with an experienced manager, Arsenal are favourites for the Premier League title. But a lengthy injury to a key starter could affect their title chances. The club have said defender William Saliba is set to miss an "extended period" after suffering a back injury while at the World Cup with France. Saliba, 25, made 50 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal last season and his formidable partnership with team-mate Gabriel was a big factor in them conceding fewer goals than anyone else in the division. Arsenal have a tricky start to the season, facing Aston Villa and Chelsea in two of their first three matches. Since Saliba's debut in 2022, Arsenal have won 68.7% of their Premier League matches when he has been in the team (131 games). When he has been sidelined, that win percentage drops to 47.6% (21 games). Read more on the title challengers for 2026-27