Arsenal defender William Saliba back in full first-team training

Arsenal defender William Saliba back in full first-team training

The French international has been unavailable since picking up the problem during the World Cup semi-final against Spain in the United States.

Having decided against surgery, the 25-year-old endured a lengthy rehabilitation programme but has now reached all his recovery targets.

"William Saliba has returned to first-team training," HandofArsenal stated on X.

"I'm told Saliba has absolutely smashed his recovery milestones, but Arsenal will be very cautious regarding his availability for selection. Great news."

His progress comes ahead of Arsenal's Champions League meeting with Slavia Prague on Wednesday night, although Mikel Arteta is expected to take a measured approach before restoring his first-choice centre-back to the starting line-up.

Saliba is unlikely to travel for Wednesday's encounter, but a place in the matchday squad for Saturday's home fixture against Hull City remains a possibility. Even then, he could be restricted to a short appearance off the bench.

Arsenal have little reason to accelerate his comeback, particularly given Ezri Konsa's impressive displays since arriving from Aston Villa.

The defender has settled comfortably into Arteta's system, establishing a strong partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes. He also won every ground duel and made eight clearances in the recent 1-0 victory over Liverpool.

Cristhian Mosquera has provided further defensive cover when required.
 

Related News

Dominik Szoboszlai fit again ahead of Liverpool's UCL trip to Fenerbahce

Dominik Szoboszlai fit again ahead of Liverpool's UCL trip to Fenerbahce

  • 38 minutes ago

Dominik Szoboszlai is expected to return to Liverpool's starting line-up for Wednesday's Champions League meeting with Fenerbahce after overcoming his recent fitness problems.

Chelsea face Joao Pedro absence, Jordan Henderson closes in on return

Chelsea face Joao Pedro absence, Jordan Henderson closes in on return

  • 1 hour ago

Chelsea will be hoping to build on their victory over Manchester United when they travel to face Sunderland, although Xabi Alonso continues to contend with several significant injury concerns.

Kobbie Mainoo reveals how Michael Carrick has transformed his game at Man Utd

Kobbie Mainoo reveals how Michael Carrick has transformed his game at Man Utd

  • 4 hours ago

Kobbie Mainoo believes Michael Carrick has helped him become a more confident and influential midfielder at Manchester United, particularly by encouraging him to take greater responsibility on the pitch.

Barcelona's Raphinha, Gavi and Balde earn Flick's backing ahead of Villa clash

Barcelona's Raphinha, Gavi and Balde earn Flick's backing ahead of Villa clash

  • 5 hours ago

Hansi Flick has backed Raphinha, Gavi and Alejandro Balde to play important roles for Barcelona as they prepare to face Aston Villa in the Champions League on Tuesday.