Saliba returns to Arsenal training after back injury ahead of Champions League trip

William Saliba has rejoined Arsenal’s first-team training sessions, marking a significant step in his recovery from the back injury that has kept him sidelined for the entire season so far. The 25-year-old centre-back was pictured working with Mikel Arteta’s squad ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League fixture against Slavia Prague.

Saliba sustained the injury during this summer’s World Cup and has yet to feature for the Gunners in any competition this season. Despite his absence, Arsenal have not visibly suffered at the back, with summer signing Ezri Konsa stepping in alongside Gabriel Magalhães and performing impressively in the role.

The defensive partnership has been particularly effective in recent weeks, with Arsenal keeping four consecutive clean sheets in the Premier League. That run includes Sunday’s 1-0 win at Anfield — the club’s first victory at Liverpool in 14 years — where Arteta’s side produced a disciplined defensive display to claim all three points.

While Saliba’s return to training is an encouraging sign, the club are not expected to rush him back into competitive action given the length of his lay-off. Arteta will be mindful of managing the France international carefully as Arsenal look to defend the Premier League title they won last season.

The timing nonetheless gives Arteta a welcome selection headache, with a fully fit Saliba adding considerable depth and quality to a backline that has already shown it can function at the highest level without him.