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Arsenal Weigh Defensive Options As Konsa Eyes Start Against Napoli

By Ryan Taylor

Arsenal have been putting the finishing touches on their preparations for an upcoming European match against Napoli, with training ground activity offering insight into manager Mikel Arteta's defensive plans. Arteta was observed sharing a significant exchange with defender Ezri Konsa during a recent session, indicating close collaboration as selection decisions approach. Konsa's rising profile follows his appearance as a substitute in Arsenal's victory over Aston Villa, where he replaced Cristhian Mosquera after the Spaniard was withdrawn during the match. Speaking afterward, Arteta described the substitution as a precautionary measure rather than a response to a confirmed injury, noting that Mosquera 'was feeling like he was about to' sustain one. With Mosquera's fitness now uncertain heading into the Napoli fixture, Konsa is in contention to start what could prove a pivotal European tie. Arteta confirmed the defender remains under consideration, saying, 'He's certainly available in the squad, so we'll have to make that selection.' In further team news, Jurrien Timber appears close to returning to action after a spell out, giving Arsenal additional depth at the back. Arteta spoke positively about the Dutch defender's progress, describing him as being 'in a really good condition at the moment' and noting he has spent 'a few weeks on the pitch' training with the team, though no timeline has been set for his return to competitive matches. William Saliba remains unavailable, with no indication from the club that his return is imminent. The uncertainty surrounding Mosquera, combined with Saliba's continued absence, has placed additional emphasis on Arsenal's defensive depth, with Konsa positioned as a key option to fill the void. As Arteta's meticulous training sessions continue to offer hints about his tactical thinking, Arsenal fans will be watching closely to see which defenders are trusted to face Napoli in a fixture expected to test the squad's resilience.