Saliba out for months, Rice and Saka fit for Community Shield

Arsenal's defensive duo Saliba and Timber are ruled out, but Rice and Saka are set to feature against Man City.

W. Saliba

player

View profile →

What happened. Mikel Arteta confirmed that William Saliba and Jurrien Timber will miss the Community Shield due to injuries, while Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are expected to be involved.

• Saliba aggravated a pre-existing back issue while playing for France.
• Timber has been managing a groin problem since March.
• Rice, Saka, Zubimendi and Merino have returned from World Cup duty.

Arsenal begin their 2026/27 campaign against Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday.

In this story

ArsenalMikel Arteta

More to read

Football.London

Arsenal can add £51m striker to Mikel Arteta's squad if Andrea Berta strikes transfer deal

Mirror Football

Mikel Arteta gives injury update on five Arsenal stars ahead of Community Shield

Daily Mail Football

Mikel Arteta admits he is shocked by this summer's transfer fees - as he opens up on Ethan Nwaneri's future at Arsenal

Metro Football

Mikel Arteta drops huge Ethan Nwaneri transfer hint after two offers for Arsenal star