According to a report by Football London on Tuesday November 3, 2026, Arsenal have received encouraging injury news ahead of their important fixtures against Manchester City, Real Madrid and Tottenham, with defender William Saliba returning to first-team training after four months.

The 25-year-old French international has been unavailable since suffering a back injury during the World Cup. He was forced off after approximately 30 minutes of France’s 2-0 semi-final defeat against Spain.

Saliba initially went down following an apparently harmless incident before kicking the ball out of play and requesting medical assistance. Maxence Lacroix subsequently replaced him during the encounter.

Arsenal confirmed in July that the centre-back would spend an extended period recovering from the problem, although surgery was not considered necessary. His latest progress represents an important development for Mikel Arteta.

The defender returned to training on Tuesday morning, just one day before Arsenal’s Champions League meeting with Slavia Prague. However, it remains unclear whether he will be included in the travelling squad.

Arsenal shared a photograph of Saliba participating in training alongside the message, “Look who's back.” Arteta was expected to address his condition during Tuesday's scheduled press conference.

Before sustaining his injury, Saliba enjoyed an impressive World Cup campaign, completing five starts and playing every minute before his substitution against Spain. France conceded only twice while he featured.

He also made 50 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal last season, becoming an important figure in their Premier League title triumph and impressive journey to the Champions League final.

During his absence, Cristhian Mosquera initially partnered Gabriel in central defence before suffering an ankle injury. Ezri Konsa subsequently established himself alongside the Brazilian following his £51million arrival from Aston Villa.

Despite Saliba's absence, Arsenal have maintained their defensive strength, conceding just five goals in their opening nine Premier League matches this season.

The Frenchman, who finished 29th in October's men's Ballon d'Or rankings, now appears closer to returning. Arsenal will carefully assess his fitness before deciding when to restore him to competitive action.