Pep Guardiola responds after Arsenal achieve feat few sides can manage

It’s been a tough year for Arsenal defensively, and the situation isn’t easing up any time soon.

The Gunners were without William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes in the loss to Aston Villa, and that absence was felt.

Arsenal still managed to cope without them at times this season, something Gary Lineker took notice of. Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, he said: “They even coped, didn’t they, without Gabriel and Saliba.

“Not many teams could cope with losing their two central defenders. But they did because they’ve got good coverage in that position now.”

The addition of Piero Hincapie has turned out to be a smart move from Andrea Berta, as the Ecuadorian has stepped in when needed.

Arsenal’s planning during the summer window is showing its value now, with depth across the squad helping them stay on track.

Pep Guardiola reacts to Man City’s growing injury list

Lineker’s remarks come at a time when Manchester City are also dealing with a similar issue, having both of their first-choice centre-backs sidelined through injury.

Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol both went down during the Chelsea match, leaving Pep Guardiola short on options and needing to act quickly.

While Mikel Arteta has been able to shuffle his squad around, Guardiola is reportedly looking to the transfer market for solutions.

BBC journalist Sami Mokbel reported on X that City have stepped up their pursuit of Marc Guehi in response to the injuries.

If City do move for reinforcements, it would highlight just how well Arteta has managed Arsenal’s challenges without turning to the market so far this season.