Arsenal’s preparations for the Carabao Cup semi‑final first leg against Chelsea on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, have been complicated by injury concerns after manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that forwards Leandro Trossard and defender William Saliba are doubtful for the important clash, according to a club statement on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
Arteta provided the latest team news at a pre‑match press conference, saying both players are currently being assessed and that “late decisions” will be made regarding their availability.
He did not disclose specific details on the nature or severity of the injuries affecting either player but emphasised that squad adjustments will be made as needed.
The potential absence of Trossard and Saliba would represent a significant blow to Arsenal’s tactical setup. Saliba has been a regular presence in the club’s defence, while Trossard’s versatility and attacking threat have been important components of Arteta’s rotation options.
Both players sat out Arsenal’s FA Cup third‑round victory over Portsmouth on Sunday, alongside Piero Hincapie, who remains sidelined with a hamstring issue.
Antoni Calafiori, recovering from a muscle injury, is also expected to miss the semi‑final tie and is not yet available for selection.
Arteta sought to reassure supporters by describing the injuries as “nothing serious,” but acknowledged that the timing of their return remains uncertain, saying the coaching staff will continue monitoring their responses to treatment before finalising the squad.
The tie against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge represents a key opportunity for Arsenal to secure silverware, with both clubs having strong domestic cup traditions and a longstanding rivalry. The semi‑final will be contested over two legs, with the first leg scheduled for Wednesday evening.
Arsenal reached the semi‑final stage after a penalty‑shootout victory over Crystal Palace in the quarter‑finals late last year, underscoring the team’s resilience in knockout competition. Analysts say depth and tactical flexibility will be tested if key players are absent due to fitness concerns.
As fitness assessments continue, Arteta and his coaching staff are expected to name a provisional squad later on matchday, with fan interest high in how the Gunners will navigate the clash amid injury uncertainties.
