Saliba returns to Arsenal training after lengthy injury absence

Defender William Saliba returned to full training with Arsenal on Tuesday ahead of their Champions League match against Slavia Prague on Wednesday, following a lengthy absence due to a back injury. His return offers manager Mikel Arteta the option to recall him for the upcoming fixture.

Saliba had been sidelined since suffering the injury while playing for France at last summer’s World Cup, with initial expectations suggesting he could be out until the end of the year. The defender opted against surgery, instead following a conservative rehabilitation program that lasted several months.

His recovery showed significant progress in October, when Saliba resumed running on the pitch before eventually rejoining group training with his teammates.

During his absence, Arsenal signed Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa in a deal reportedly worth around £55 million to cover for the French defender.

Although Saliba is now back in training, his participation against Slavia Prague remains uncertain. Arteta could choose to include him on Wednesday or delay his return to competitive action to avoid risking him after such a long layoff.