Arsenal–Hull preview: Konsa ready, Saka out and Saliba’s minutes to manage

Arsenal host Hull City at Emirates Stadium on Saturday, 7 November, at 15:00 GMT/UTC (16:00 CET; 17:00 CAT).

Three different fitness situations

Mikel Arteta confirmed Ezri Konsa is ready after being withdrawn as a precaution with a knee knock during Wednesday’s 2–1 Champions League win at Slavia Prague.

Bukayo Saka remains out. Arteta described his recovery in terms of weeks and said progress would be assessed after the international break, without committing to a return date.

William Saliba returned to the bench in Prague following his back injury. Arsenal’s preview says he could return to action against Hull; that does not confirm a start. Max Dowman will serve the second game of a three-match suspension.

Hull’s early wins have given way to draws and defeats

Arsenal’s official preview records that Hull won their opening two league matches but have not won in the subsequent seven. Their last two away league games ended in defeats at Newcastle and Fulham.

What to watch

Our analysis: Konsa’s clearance, Saliba’s possible minutes and Saka’s continued absence are separate selection questions. Arsenal have defensive options returning, while the attack still needs to function without Saka.

For Hull, ending the winless run requires more than surviving pressure. Watch whether they can retain enough possession after regaining the ball to give their defence a break and create an attacking platform.