Arsenal worry over Saliba and Gabriel fitness ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures

Mikel Arteta's team returned from the international break looking to bounce back from their Carabao Cup Final defeat to Manchester City.

Arsenal's next four fixtures will test their depth and resilience: a FA Cup quarter-final clash against Southampton at St. Mary's Stadium on 4 April, the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final at Sporting CP on 7 April, a Premier League match against Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium on 11 April, followed by the second leg against Sporting CP on 15 April.

The defensive situation is the biggest concern for Arteta. Saliba withdrew from the France national team squad with an ankle problem, while Gabriel pulled out of the Brazil squad with a knee issue. Both decisions were precautionary, but underline how carefully Arsenal are managing their most influential defenders.

There was some relief for Arteta as Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka returned from England duty without playing, while Jurrien Timber and others also avoided extra strain. Despite that, the growing list of fitness concerns shows how fragile squad depth can be at this stage.

History shows the risk is real. Gabriel previously missed 10 matches after picking up a thigh injury on international duty, while Saliba has already dealt with recurring ankle issues this season.

With both defenders expected to be key figures for France and Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, resting them now is seen as the safest option for club and country.

Keeping Saliba and Gabriel fit over the coming weeks could be crucial as Arsenal chase silverware across the FA Cup, Champions League, and Premier League. Arteta will hope their precautionary withdrawals pay off in the next four demanding fixtures.