Mikel Arteta has confirmed that William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli will miss Arsenal’s Carabao Cup fourth-round match against Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday night at the Emirates Stadium. Both players are sidelined with minor injuries that need further assessment. The news comes as a setback for Arsenal, who are juggling several competitions and facing a congested fixture schedule.
Arteta explained during Tuesday’s press conference that neither player is fit to feature. “Both William and Gabi are dealing with small issues that we don’t want to worsen,” he said. “We’ll evaluate them again soon. Protecting players is important, especially during such a busy period.”
Injury Update and Player Impact
William Saliba suffered a slight hamstring strain during training. The French defender has been a vital part of Arsenal’s defense with his calmness and ability to play out from the back. His absence will force Arteta to reshuffle his backline once again.
Gabriel Martinelli continues to recover from a muscle problem picked up in the previous Premier League game. The Brazilian winger brings pace and directness on the flank, and Arteta prefers to rest him rather than risk a setback. “He’s been training well but isn’t ready for full intensity,” Arteta noted.
Key Players Return
There is good news for the Gunners. Declan Rice, Riccardo Calafiori, and Bukayo Saka return to the squad after short absences. Rice’s composure and ball control will strengthen the midfield, while Saka’s presence adds attacking threat and creativity. Calafiori, who impressed in training, could feature either at left-back or center-back. His versatility gives Arteta more defensive options in Saliba’s absence.
Arteta confirmed plans to rotate the squad while maintaining a competitive lineup. “We’ll give minutes to players who deserve them,” he said. “It’s about keeping balance, staying competitive, and protecting the team’s rhythm.”
Long-Term Absentees
Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus remain out. Ødegaard continues his recovery from an ankle injury, while Havertz works his way back from a calf strain. Jesus, who hurt his hamstring in the Champions League, is still undergoing treatment. Their absence puts pressure on Arsenal’s squad depth, but several backup players have stepped up.
Leandro Trossard, Emile Smith Rowe, and Eddie Nketiah have filled the gaps effectively in recent matches. Arteta praised their attitude, saying, “Every player has shown the right mentality. That’s what makes a team strong.”
Brighton’s Challenge
Brighton arrive at the Emirates in strong form after a 2-1 Premier League win over Manchester United. Under Roberto De Zerbi, they have developed a reputation for attacking football and tactical flexibility. Players like João Pedro, Kaoru Mitoma, and Pascal Groß will test Arsenal’s defense with their pace and movement.
Arteta acknowledged Brighton’s quality, noting that “they play brave, attacking football and use possession well. We’ll need focus and intensity to control the match.”
Tactical Adjustments and Predicted Lineup
Arteta is expected to use a 4-3-3 formation that emphasizes pressing and quick transitions. Without Saliba, Ben White may shift to center-back alongside Jakub Kiwior, with Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko covering the flanks. Declan Rice should start at the base of midfield, supported by Jorginho and Fabio Vieira.
In attack, Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, and Eddie Nketiah are likely to lead the line. Arteta might also hand opportunities to youngsters like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Reuell Walters, who have impressed in training.
Opportunity for Squad Depth
The Carabao Cup remains a chance for Arsenal to test their depth and pursue silverware. The Gunners last won the competition in 1993, and Arteta wants to end that drought. “We respect every competition,” he said. “Winning brings belief and builds momentum.”
The match also provides valuable minutes for fringe players and a chance to maintain confidence ahead of upcoming league and European fixtures. With several top players out, the manager’s tactical flexibility and leadership will be key.
Looking Ahead
After the Brighton clash, Arsenal face West Ham United in the Premier League this weekend. Maintaining squad health is a priority as the club enters a demanding stretch of matches in three competitions. Arteta emphasized that proper recovery and rotation will determine their consistency.
Despite the injuries, Arsenal remain confident. The return of Rice, Saka, and Calafiori offers balance and energy, while the team’s form has been strong in recent weeks. A win against Brighton would not only secure a quarterfinal spot but also reinforce their growing depth and resilience.
