Saliba returns to Arsenal training; Konsa's form complicates selection

William Saliba has returned to full training with Arsenal following a back injury sustained during France's World Cup semifinal loss to Spain in July. The 25-year-old centre-back, who missed the entire 2026-27 season, underwent specialist assessment after the tournament and did not require surgery but needed extended rehabilitation. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed Saliba is "in a really good place" and has played 45 minutes in behind-closed-doors training, describing his recovery as progressing as expected. Arteta noted that Saliba "feels ready to go now" and that his evolution has been "as expected, which is not always the case."

Saliba's return creates a significant defensive puzzle for Arteta, as summer signing Ezri Konsa has impressed seamlessly during his absence. The £55 million arrival from Aston Villa formed a strong partnership with Gabriel Magalhães that has helped Arsenal top the Premier League with just five goals conceded in nine games. Konsa has started seven of Arsenal's nine Premier League matches and won the joint-most tackles (nine) among the squad, while also recording the highest pass accuracy in the Premier League this season (96%). Some analysts have described the Konsa-Gabriel pairing as among the best in world football.

Arteta faces the challenge of accommodating multiple quality defenders. Konsa, 29, has demonstrated versatility by playing at right-back for England and could shift to that role once Saliba returns, allowing both to feature in the side. Arsenal also has Jurriën Timber and Ben White as right-back options. When asked if the availability of three centre-backs was a problem, Arteta responded with a laugh: "So far we haven't had that luxury. I wouldn't call it a problem. We are going to have the opportunity to manage the congestion of the players in a much better way."

Saliba's partnership with Gabriel Magalhães was instrumental in Arsenal's Premier League title win last season, when the pair helped the club concede only 27 league goals. Saliba was named in the PFA team of the year for the fourth consecutive time. His return comes at a time when Arsenal face a busy festive schedule and ongoing Champions League commitments. The club has indicated it will manage Saliba's comeback cautiously, with the international break providing time to build his fitness before regular selection.