Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest this Saturday is set to mark a significant milestone for young defender Cristhian Mosquera, who is expected to make his full debut following William Saliba’s injury setback. The 21-year-old Spaniard, signed from Valencia for £13 million in July, has already shown glimpses of promise — and now finds himself thrust into the spotlight.
🩺 Saliba’s Absence Opens the Door
Saliba sustained an ankle injury during the warm-up ahead of Arsenal’s recent match against Liverpool, forcing manager Mikel Arteta to make an early change just five minutes into the game. Mosquera stepped in and delivered a composed performance at Anfield, despite the Gunners falling to a narrow 1–0 defeat.
His stats from the match were impressive:
- ✅ 92% pass completion
- 🛡️ 80% duels won
- 🔁 3 recoveries
- 🧱 2 tackles
Aside from one minor lapse in the second half, Mosquera looked assured and unfazed, earning praise from Arteta, who described his performance as “really good.”
🔄 Defensive Options Considered
With Saliba expected to be sidelined for several weeks, Arteta faces a decision on who will partner Gabriel Magalhães in central defence. While Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapié are available, both are left-footed — making Mosquera, a natural right-footer, a more balanced fit.
Ben White and Jurrien Timber are also options, but White has been deployed primarily at right-back, and Timber is still working his way back to full fitness. All signs point to Arteta placing his trust in Mosquera for the Forest fixture.
🌟 Eze Poised for First Start
In addition to Mosquera’s expected debut, Eberechi Eze could also make his first Arsenal start. The summer signing from Crystal Palace impressed during a late cameo at Anfield and may be preferred over Gabriel Martinelli on the left wing.
Eze’s creativity and ability to glide past defenders could offer Arsenal a fresh attacking dimension, especially with Bukayo Saka still nursing a hamstring issue.
🔮 What’s at Stake
Arsenal will be eager to bounce back from their defeat to Liverpool and reassert themselves in the title race. With key players sidelined, this match offers a chance for emerging talents like Mosquera and Eze to step up and prove their worth.
For Mosquera, it’s more than just a debut — it’s an opportunity to show he belongs at the heart of Arsenal’s defence. And if his Anfield performance is anything to go by, the Gunners may have unearthed another gem.