Arsenal have received a major fitness boost as defender William Saliba has returned to first-team training, clearing a significant hurdle in his rehabilitation from a persistent back problem.
Arsenal star William Saliba back in training after injury recovery
Back in Action: Saliba Takes Huge Step Toward Arsenal Return
The France international has yet to feature for the Gunners this season after aggravating a long-standing issue during the World Cup semi-finals.
Arsenal opted against surgery, choosing a conservative treatment approach, though initial fears suggested the 25-year-old might not play again in 2026.
According to reports, Saliba has “absolutely smashed” his recovery targets over recent months.
The centre-back resumed individual training in October, and manager Mikel Arteta declined to rule out a return following the November international break.
Saliba’s comeback now appears imminent as he rejoins his teammates on the training pitch.
Arsenal will exercise extreme caution regarding his reintegration. Saliba is unlikely to feature in Wednesday’s Champions League fixture against Slavia Prague, though he may participate in Tuesday’s open training session.
A slim chance exists that he could make the squad for this weekend’s fixture against Hull City, or for Arsenal’s first match after the international break away to Newcastle United on November 21.
Saliba enjoyed a stellar 2025-26 campaign, making 50 appearances across all competitions, including 30 Premier League starts and 12 Champions League outings, accumulating 4,254 minutes.
He also started six games for France at the 2026 World Cup before his back issue forced him off in the 30th minute of the semi-final defeat to Spain.
His return presents Arteta with a welcome selection dilemma. Ezri Konsa has seamlessly integrated into Arsenal’s backline, contributing to five clean sheets this season and producing a defensive masterclass in the 1-0 victory over Liverpool.
The 29-year-old England international has formed a blossoming partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes and should retain his starting spot while Saliba rebuilds match fitness.
However, if Saliba recaptures the form he displayed over the past four years, expect the Frenchman to eventually reclaim his place in Arsenal’s defence, even with Konsa proving one of the season’s standout signings.
