William Saliba's absence from Arsenal's starting lineup against Chelsea last weekend struck fear into those of a Gunners' persuasion.
With centre-back partner Gabriel already missing for an extended period, Saliba's omission was cause for concern ahead of one of Arsenal's biggest - and toughest - fixtures of the season.
Is Arsenal defender William Saliba injured this week?
France international Saliba has developed into a key player under Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and is ranked at no.2 in FourFourTwo's list of the best centre-backs in the world right now.
But this latest issue is not the first time he has been sidelined in 2025/26, having sustained an ankle injury against Liverpool in August which saw him miss the Gunners' next two matches.
Saliba was replaced at half-time by Cristhian Mosquera against Crystal Palace earlier this season but was able to complete 90 minutes in Arsenal's next match.
Ahead of Brentford's visit to the Emirates Stadium, head coach Arteta provided an update on Saliba's condition.
“I am not going to be able to help you much today, because we have another training session later and, until that happens, we won’t know what is going to happen with a few of the doubts we have.
“He had a little niggle, but I think it is going to be a matter of days. So, let’s see if he is able to do that tomorrow."
If Saliba is not passed fit, it is probable Arsenal will start with Mosquera alongside fellow summer signing Piero Hincapie for the Bees' trip across London.
Whether Saliba makes the midweek fixture or not remains a mystery, however, at the very least it doesn't sound as though the issue is too troublesome.
All being well, the Frenchman can be expected to return to the Arsenal lineup sooner rather than later.
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