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<p>PLAYER FOCUS</p>
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<p><img alt="Cristhian Mosquera: Arsenal's €15m prospect can replace William Saliba after injury vs Liverpool" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/mosquera-arsenal-1756663023-176261.jpg" title="Cristhian Mosquera: Arsenal's €15m prospect can replace William Saliba after injury vs Liverpool"></img></p>
<p><span>©IMAGO</span></p>
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<p>Cristhian Mosquera, the €15 million acquisition from Valencia, had just settled onto the Arsenal bench when he was called to action, making his second appearance for the team against Liverpool. Prior to this match, he had limited pre-season action and only 26 minutes of Premier League experience, having come off the bench in the 5-0 victory over Leeds United. That match offered him little challenge, as the result was well in hand and played in front of supportive home fans at the Emirates Stadium. However, entering the game at Anfield just five minutes in to replace the indispensable William Saliba, Mosquera was indeed thrust into a challenging situation.</p>
<h2>Player Spotlight: Cristhian Mosquera</h2>
<p>At just 21 years old, the center-back exhibited the understandable nerves typical of a young player early in the match. Despite a few heavy touches, he gradually adjusted to his role alongside Gabriel Magalhaes, effectively managing most threats directed his way. Notably, he had a strong showing against Hugo Ekitike, winning most of their duels, which further showcased his developing skill set. Statistics backed his performance, as he completed 26 out of 28 passes in the first half alone, demonstrating his intent to move the ball forward and boosting his confidence on the ball.</p>
<p><img alt="Player Focus: Cristhian Mosquera" height="629" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/newsansicht/cristhian-mosquera-1756663194-176262.png?lm=1756663208" title="Player Focus: Cristhian Mosquera" width="503"></img></p>
<p>Defensively, he was equally reliable, matching only Mikel Merino's three tackles throughout the game. The second half provided him with further opportunities, particularly in engaging in tightly contested battles with Ekitike. When Liverpool's front line, featuring Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz, pressed, Mosquera remained composed, effectively passing the ball between himself, Gabriel, and David Raya within his penalty area. A small slip-up occurred in the 61st minute when Ekitike capitalized on a loose ball to score, beating Mosquera to it by mere fractions; however, Gakpo was flagged offside, averting what could have been a significant error. After this, Mosquera held firm against Liverpool’s attacks, even as they claimed a late 1-0 win from a stunning free-kick by Dominik Szoboszlai.</p>
<p>The loss of Saliba to a suspected muscle injury is a considerable setback, especially while Bukayo Saka faces a hamstring issue and Martin Odegaard deals with a shoulder concern. Nevertheless, Mosquera's promising performance offers a silver lining in light of Saliba's potential absence, giving manager Mikel Arteta a reason to feel optimistic following a narrow defeat. Gary Neville, providing commentary for Sky Sports, rightly praised Mosquera, suggesting that he appears ready for more game time. If Saliba is out for several weeks, Arteta may have no choice but to rely on the young Colombian again.</p>
<h2>Market Value Assessment</h2>
<p>Although Mosquera has only played two games at the Emirates, Arsenal fans would be thrilled if he maintains this level of performance, especially given his relatively low transfer fee. In contrast, Chelsea and Liverpool have reportedly sought over €40 million for Jorrel Hato and Marc Guehi this summer, making Mosquera an excellent value for money. Currently, his market value sits at €30 million according to Transfermarkt. Should he step up to fill Saliba's role alongside Gabriel in the upcoming weeks, it would be reasonable to predict a surge in his market value. However, the potential arrival of Piero Hincapié, who also plays as a center-back, might complicate these plans. For now, the highly-rated Mosquera remains a player to watch closely.</p>
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