Silva rubbishes Arsenal injury talk ahead of Fulham clash
Fulham manager Marco Silva has dismissed claims that Arsenal are in the middle of an injury crisis, describing Mikel Arteta’s squad as one of the strongest in Europe.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash, Silva downplayed the Gunners’ injury troubles and instead emphasized his own side’s challenges.
Despite Arsenal missing key players such as Noni Madueke, Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus, Silva insisted that Arteta’s depth and recruitment have ensured the team remains well equipped to compete.
“They don’t have Madueke, they have Saka”
Silva compared Arsenal’s absentees with his own situation at Fulham, revealing that both of his first-team strikers, Rodrigo Muniz and Raul Jimenez, are unavailable due to injuries.
He described the scenario as “probably the worst” injury crisis he has faced since taking charge of the club.
However, when asked about Arsenal’s injury situation, Silva dismissed any notion of sympathy.
“They don’t have Madueke, they have Saka, it’s not bad, not bad at all,” he said. “The other one you said was Havertz? They have Gyokeres who cost them £75 million. I think it’s a waste of time if you’re going to compare.”
When pressed about Ødegaard’s absence, Silva quipped: “They have Eze who is not bad too. I think you have to move on.”
He added that Arsenal have learned to adapt to long-term injuries through smart signings and tactical adjustments.
“With Havertz and Jesus out, they analysed it and signed Gyokeres. They’re ready to start with a striker.
“About Saka and Ødegaard, it’s more or less the same thing. They can handle these moments so the level doesn’t drop.”
Silva: Arsenal’s depth makes them title contenders
Silva acknowledged Arsenal’s strong start to the 2025/26 season, noting that the North London side’s investment in depth has paid off.
“Looking at last season and how they increased their depth, it’s clear for everyone,” he said.
“They’re very, very strong, one of the best defensive partnerships in Europe and quality all around the pitch.”
The Fulham boss added that Arsenal’s recent form is no surprise, citing their solid performances in recent years. “It’s not new. They’ve been very tough to play against,” Silva stated.
Fulham, meanwhile, face major selection headaches with both main strikers ruled out.
Silva must decide whether to hand a debut to Bayern Munich loanee Jonah Daniel Kusi-Asare or continue with Josh King up front. Either way, the Cottagers face a daunting test against one of the Premier League’s most formidable defences.
Arsenal have dominated this fixture in recent years, winning nine of their last 14 league meetings.
Fulham’s last victory over Arteta’s men came in December 2023, while the Gunners remain unbeaten in 18 of their last 19 London derbies.
