Arsenal receive major Saliba injury boost as return date emerges

‎Arsenal’s hope of defending the Premier League title have gotten a significant boost as William Saliba steps up his rehabilitation from a long-term back injury.

‎Saliba was ruled out for an extended period in July following an abrupt early exit during France’s World Cup semi-final defeat to eventual champions Spain.

‎Instead of going under the knife, the centre-back has undergone an intensive, daily programme of massages and physiotherapy at Arsenal.

‎Club medical staff have deliberately taken a cautious approach, finally allowing the defender to transition from cycling to running.

William Saliba leaves the pitch after an injury during the 2026 World Cup football tournament semi-final match between France and Spain. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)

‎Saliba has now reportedly returned to the grass for the first time since the summer.

‎According to TEAMtalk, sources believe the player could be available to face Bayern Munich in the Allianz Arena this month.

‎“However, Arsenal are taking no risks with their star defender and are instead pencilling in either the home Premier League fixture against Everton (October 24) or, perhaps more realistically, the Carabao Cup clash at Fleetwood (October 27) as more realistic return dates,” the report adds.

‎Arsenal brought in Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa as Saliba’s replacement, with the England international having settled into life in North London.

‎However, Konsa has also suffered a knock during the international break, and was forced to sit out of England’s match against the Czech Republic.

‎