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Saliba makes competitive return with Arsenal U21s after four-month absence

Absent since France's World Cup semi-final loss in July, William Saliba played the first half of Arsenal U21's match against Aston Villa on Saturday, a first step in his gradual reintegration before the international break.

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Saliba makes competitive return with Arsenal U21s after four-month absence
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William Saliba returned to competitive action on Saturday, four months after his last official appearance, playing the first half of Arsenal U21’s match against Aston Villa’s young side (5-2 victory). The 25-year-old French defender had not played since France’s World Cup semi-final loss to Spain in mid-July.

During that match, Saliba had to leave the pitch after just half an hour due to persistent back pain, raising questions about the rest of his season and the possibility of surgery. Arsenal and their player ultimately opted for a care protocol combined with an extended rest period, ruling out any intervention.

Mikel Arteta had anticipated this return by explaining he wanted to give his defender playing time before rejoining the senior squad. “He needs minutes,” the Spanish manager had said, clarifying that playing with the U21s over this weekend was “the best thing for him” to complete his recovery during the international break.

Saliba has not worn an Arsenal senior shirt since 30 May and the Ligue des Champions final lost to PSG. Barring any setback, he should rejoin the senior squad after the international break.

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