Arsenal sidelined key players Saliba, Martinelli for Carabao Cup tie against Brighton due to injuries

Arsenal faces significant injury concerns ahead of their Carabao Cup fourth-round match against Brighton, with key players William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli confirmed as unavailable due to injuries sustained during their recent 1-0 Premier League win over Crystal Palace. Saliba was substituted at halftime, and Martinelli was seen limping post-match, with both undergoing further assessment. Additionally, Declan Rice and Riccardo Calafiori picked up knocks during the game but remain available for selection, while Bukayo Saka, who had been ill, is also fit to play. Other absences include long-term injuries to Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus. Manager Mikel Arteta is expected to make several changes to the lineup, including starting goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and featuring defensive and midfield reinforcements. Maintaining squad fitness is critical as Arsenal leads the Premier League and aims to sustain their winning run amid a packed schedule.