Arsenal injured crisis surfaces early in season, with Saliba's injury adding to the team's bruised backsbone

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Arsenal are facing a testing month ahead as they navigate through an injury crisis that is approaching crisis territory. The Gunners have been hit hard by a string of injuries to key players, with manager Mikel Arteta potentially missing five key men before mid-September.

In their recent trip to Anfield, Arsenal fielded a 'second-string' XI due to the mounting injuries. Martin Odegaard and Leandro Trossard were only fit enough for the bench, while Mikel Merino, who scored four goals in two games for Spain during the break, was also unavailable.

The injury list includes star players such as Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and William Saliba. Saka could be out for weeks due to a hamstring scare, while Havertz is sidelined until potentially mid-October due to a minor knee procedure. Saliba's ankle issue may take a month to resolve.

However, Arteta has shown faith in his squad's depth, with young talent Cristhian Mosquera likely to replace Saliba in the defensive line. Mosquera made an impressive debut at Anfield, demonstrating his readiness to fill the gap in defense during Saliba's potential 3-4 week absence.

Arsenal's record-breaking summer splurge of over £250m worth of talent has provided some relief. The arrival of Eberechi Eze, a £68m buy from Crystal Palace, bolsters Arsenal's attack. Additionally, Viktor Gyokeres, a world-class striker, has joined the club.

The upcoming month will be a true test of Arsenal's ability to lift silverware come May. Their set-piece and defensive strength has carried on from last term, but the injury woes could pose a significant challenge. Piero Hincapie provides more defensive cover on the bench for Arsenal.

Meanwhile, Noni Madueke filled in for Bukayo Saka and shone on Merseyside. His performance could be a promising sign for Arsenal as they look to cope with the injuries and maintain their form.

As Arteta officially comes under pressure to deliver results, the team will need to rally together and show resilience in the face of adversity. The fate of Arsenal's season could very well be decided in the coming weeks.