William Saliba targets November return to Arsenal after taking first steps running in injury comeback

From the Newshound archive · first published 1 October 2026.

William Saliba has begun running for the first time since suffering a back injury during France's World Cup campaign, with his entourage telling L'Equipe he is targeting a November return to competitive action. The 25-year-old has been receiving daily treatment and massages at Arsenal's training ground, and has now progressed from cycling to running as his rehabilitation advances. His return will depend on how his body responds over the coming weeks, with Arsenal taking a deliberately cautious approach.

Saliba played only 30 minutes of France's World Cup semi-final exit before the back problem ended his summer, with fears of surgery later ruled out.