Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta could face a difficult selection decision when William Saliba returns from injury, following Ezri Konsa’s impressive performances since joining the club.

According to a report by Metro on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Ferdinand believes Konsa has made such a strong impression at the Emirates Stadium that dropping him from the starting lineup when Saliba becomes available could prove challenging for Arteta.

Saliba is reportedly close to returning to action after being included in Arsenal’s matchday squad for their Champions League encounter against Slavia Prague last week. The French international has not featured this season after sustaining a back injury following last summer’s World Cup.

The 25-year-old avoided surgery and is targeting a comeback after the November international break. However, his return could create competition for places in Arsenal’s defence, particularly with Konsa establishing himself as an important member of the team.

Konsa arrived from Aston Villa last summer in a £55 million transfer and has impressed with his performances. His defensive contributions have helped Arsenal maintain their position at the top of the Premier League table, where they hold a five-point advantage, while also remaining unbeaten in the Champions League.

Ferdinand, who previously admitted Manchester United should have attempted to sign the England international, has been particularly impressed by the defender’s strength, aggression and confidence.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former United centre-back said: "Mikel Arteta has got a problem, he’s got a huge problem now."

He described Konsa as an almost immovable presence in Arsenal’s defence, praising how comfortably the defender has adapted to his new surroundings.

Although Ferdinand acknowledged Saliba’s previous quality and importance to the team, he believes Arsenal now have two outstanding centre-backs competing for starting positions. He also suggested that Konsa could sometimes be deployed at right-back, allowing Arteta to accommodate both defenders in the same lineup.

Meanwhile, Ferdinand remains confident Arsenal will win the Premier League title this season, maintaining the prediction he made before the campaign began.

He believes the Gunners' ability to secure victories even when they are not at their best makes them serious contenders. While he sees room for improvement in their attack, he considers their defence and midfield among the strongest in Europe.

Arsenal last defeated Hull City 1-0 before the international break, with Martin Odegaard scoring the decisive goal. Arteta acknowledged that his players still have areas to improve.

The Gunners will return to Premier League action against Newcastle United at St James’ Park after the international break.