Arsenal’s Premier League campaign took a double hit on Saturday after a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa was overshadowed by fears over William Saliba’s fitness.

The French defender, pivotal to Arsenal’s backline, was absent from the squad due to a hamstring injury sustained during the midweek victory over Tottenham.

Manager Mikel Arteta has shown serious concerns about the injury, acknowledging its potential impact on the team’s title ambitions.

“We’re very worried,” Arteta admitted post-match.

“Saliba is a key player for us, and with the depth we have in the squad, his absence is a big concern. We’ll know more after further tests tomorrow.”

Saliba’s importance to Arsenal cannot be overstated.

The Gunners boast a 72% win rate when the 22-year-old plays, compared to just 38% when he’s absent.

Last season, his back injury derailed Arsenal’s title push, allowing Manchester City to seize the crown.

Arteta was forced to reshuffle his defense, deploying Jurrien Timber centrally alongside Gabriel and using Thomas Partey as a makeshift right-back.

While Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz gave Arsenal a 2-0 lead, Villa roared back, with Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins leveling the match.

The draw leaves Arsenal six points behind league leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.

Arteta hinted that reinforcements may be needed in January, stating, “When you look at the bench, we are very short.”

While we await update on Saliba’s condition, the club faces a critical juncture in their pursuit of Premier League glory.

Without their defensive linchpin, Arsenal’s title dream could once again slip away.