Arteta admits Arsenal’s defence needs strengthening

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·21 August 2026

Arteta admits Arsenal’s defence needs strengthening

Mikel Arteta admits Arsenal probably need to find solutions in defence as they close in on completing a move for Ezri Konsa and prepare to be without William Saliba during the opening weeks of the season.

The Gunners have been masters of defending in recent seasons, continuing to show that they are one of the hardest teams for anyone to score against. They built their title-winning success on a strong defence and can continue to do so as they develop and evolve as a team.

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However, that will only happen if they have their best defenders available. For now, Arsenal have arguably the best centre-back pairing in the league, and the Gunners could win even more matches than they did last season if Gabriel and William Saliba remain fit.

Arsenal face defensive problem

That is not the case at the moment, though, as the Frenchman is already out of action for a few weeks with an injury. Arsenal therefore need to find a solution, which helps explain why they have pushed to sign Konsa.

The potential arrival of Konsa would give Arteta another experienced option in defence and could help the Gunners cope with Saliba’s absence. Arsenal will hope the Frenchman can return as soon as possible, but they must also ensure they have enough quality to compete while he is unavailable.

Arteta confirmed that Saliba is not yet training with the group and acknowledged that the club have a specific issue in the backline. The manager also made it clear that Arsenal are working to strengthen that area.

Arteta confirms defensive plans

Arteta said via Arsenal Media:

“[He will be back] in the next few weeks, he’s not training with the group yet. We have a really specific issue in the backline, especially with the long-term injury of Wilo.

“We are trying to reinforce that area. Whenever we’re ready, we’ll announce something.”

Arsenal will therefore continue working on their defensive plans as they prepare for the new season. Saliba’s absence creates an immediate concern, but the club appear determined to address it by adding another defender.

If Arsenal can complete their move for Konsa and manage Saliba’s return carefully, Arteta should have greater depth available in defence. The Gunners will hope that this allows them to maintain their defensive strength while their key centre-back recovers from injury.

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