Marco Silva
Fulham manager Marco Silva maintained a positive outlook ahead of the club’s challenging fixture against Premier League leaders Arsenal, despite grappling with a significant injury list. With up to six key players potentially sidelined, including Sasa Lukic, Rodrigo Muniz, and Antonee Robinson, Fulham faces a tough test at Craven Cottage. Samuel Chukwueze, Raul Jimenez, and Kenny Tete are also doubtful for Saturday’s match.
Marco Silva said: “It’s the reality for us. We cannot change it. It’s up to us, our medical staff and our rehabilitation group to get them ready as quickly as they can because we need them. If you have all your players available, you’re going to be stronger. If you don’t have key players – not just one or two – you’re not at the same level. But it’s not going to be an excuse for us. We have to move on and we have to go. Of course, we cannot hide. When we’re talking about a player like Robinson, for example, you know the impact that he’s had in the last two or three seasons in all aspects of the game. Kenny is a key player for us, as you know. Every time he’s ready and at his best, he’s a key player in the way we want to play. And Saša Lukic has been one of the best players so far in the beginning of the season for us. It is what it is.”
Marco Silva continued: “What I can say about Arsenal is that they have a very, very good squad. I think it’s shown in the way they’ve started the season and the way they’ve been playing. The reality is that before we started getting results against them, the story of Fulham Football Club for probably the last 10 or 15 years was that almost all the games were wins for Arsenal. We don’t want to find excuses. With our fans, we need them definitely at their top level too because in these types of moments, we have to show the togetherness and connection even more. The players are going to need the 12th player at Craven Cottage.”
Despite the injury setbacks, Silva emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability. The absence of key players like Robinson, who has been instrumental in Fulham’s recent seasons, poses a challenge. However, Silva remained determined that the team must not use this as an excuse. He acknowledged the critical role of the fans at Craven Cottage, urging them to be the “12th player” to help the team face Arsenal, a side that has historically dominated Fulham.
Arsenal arrives at Craven Cottage in formidable form, sitting at the top of the Premier League after seven matches. Silva recognized the quality and depth of the Arsenal squad, which has been evident in their strong start to the season. Despite the daunting task ahead, Silva’s focus remains on unity and the collective effort required to overcome the odds.
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