Mikel Arteta has given an update on the fitness status of Takehiro Tomiyasu and William Saliba following Thursday’s Europa League exit.

Both Takehiro Tomiyasu and William Saliba were forced off in the first half of Arsenal’s match against Sporting CP on Thursday night, seemingly suffering injuries in that opening 45 minutes.

Arteta’s post-match comments: Assessing the severity of the injuries

After the game, Mikel Arteta broke the bad news that Tomiyasu’s problem appears to be serious, though Saliba’s status is less clear at this stage.

“Tomiyasu looks pretty serious from his reaction straight after and what he said to me, but obviously, it’s very early,” Arteta said. “Willy [Saliba]? I don’t know, he had some discomfort and could not continue so we had to take him out.”

The short-term impact: Availability for Crystal Palace match

In the short term, the concern is whether or not Saliba will be available for the game against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

If the withdrawal was just precautionary, it’s not impossible the defender could make an immediate return. From the sounds of things, Tomiyasu won’t be available.

If they’re both out, their next chance at a comeback would be after the international break, when Arsenal host Leeds United on April 1st.

International break: A potential silver lining for injured players

That international break is certainly helpful for Arsenal with regards to the two players. If it turns out that either injury requires a week or so out, they’ll serve that absence during the international fixtures.

Saliba has already been called up by France, so it may be worth keeping an eye on the French national team’s social media channels.

If they suddenly announce a replacement for Saliba in the squad, then clearly the defender’s injury problem has ruled him out.

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