Rio Ferdinand: Ezri Konsa’s form leaves Arteta with an Arsenal dilemma

Rio Ferdinand believes Ezri Konsa’s impressive form for Arsenal could leave Mikel Arteta with a selection dilemma when William Saliba is fit again, as the former defender feels Konsa has done enough to make him difficult to drop.

Saliba has been absent recently because of a back problem he sustained at the World Cup, and is currently training after Arsenal managed his recovery cautiously. The source notes that his return to the starting lineup will depend on an assessment of his fitness.

Ferdinand praised Konsa’s quick adaptation and consistent performances in the back line, saying the defender looked as if he had been playing with the team for years and describing him as a player who is difficult to dislodge from his position. The report suggests that maintaining this level could mean Saliba faces genuine competition for his place, rather than returning automatically to the starting lineup.