Arsenal Football Club have received a major boost with defender William Saliba returning to full first-team training after spending nearly four months on the sidelines with a back injury.
The French international has been unavailable since suffering the injury during France’s World Cup semi-final clash against Spain in July 2026. His absence has been a significant concern for Mikel Arteta, who has had to find alternative defensive options during the opening months of the season.
However, Saliba has now taken a major step towards making his return after rejoining his teammates in full training on Tuesday, November 3. According to reports, the 25-year-old has made excellent progress in his recovery, successfully meeting his rehabilitation targets.
Arsenal are nevertheless expected to manage his return carefully to avoid any further complications. His return comes ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League encounter against Slavia Prague on Wednesday. Although his involvement in that fixture is uncertain, there is optimism that he could return to the matchday squad soon.
Meanwhile, summer signing Ezri Konsa has impressed alongside Gabriel Magalhães, helping Arsenal maintain their defensive strength in Saliba’s absence. The England international’s performances could present Arteta with an interesting selection dilemma once Saliba regains full match fitness.