William Saliba returns to full Arsenal training after back injury

Arsenal defender William Saliba has completed his recovery from a back injury and returned to full first-team training, providing a significant boost to manager Mikel Arteta.

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

Saliba, 25, opted not to undergo surgery and instead followed a lengthy rehabilitation programme. He has now met all the targets set during his recovery.

“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.”

The defender’s return comes before Arsenal’s Champions League meeting with Slavia Prague on Wednesday night. However, Arteta is expected to avoid rushing Saliba back into the starting line-up.

Saliba is unlikely to travel for the match, while Saturday’s home fixture against Hull City could come too soon for a full return. A place in the matchday squad for that game remains possible, although any involvement may be limited to a short substitute appearance.

Arsenal have little incentive to accelerate the centre-back’s comeback, with Ezri Konsa having performed strongly since joining from Aston Villa.

Konsa has adapted well to Arteta’s system and developed a solid partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes. He won every ground duel and made eight clearances during Arsenal’s recent 1-0 victory over Liverpool.

Cristhian Mosquera has also offered additional defensive cover when needed.

Saliba’s absence has therefore been managed without Arsenal having to rely solely on one replacement, but his return gives Arteta another established option at the heart of the defence.

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