Arsenal handed major boost as William Saliba return date revealed

Arsenal centre-back William Saliba is set to return to action next month, according to reports from L'Équipe. The Frenchman had been struggling with a back issue before the World Cup, yet still started every match for Les Bleus, including their semi-final defeat to Spain. It was during the first half of that clash against La Roja that the defender aggravated the problem, which ultimately sidelined him.

Saliba opted against surgery, instead choosing a conservative rehabilitation programme. L'Équipe reports that recent routine scans showed his recovery is progressing well, putting him on track for a return in November. In his absence, Ezri Konsa has impressed for Arsenal, while Liverpool defender Jérémy Jacquet has seized his opportunity with the France national side.

Initial forecasts suggested Saliba could face between four and five months out, making the latest update a major boost regarding the speed of his recovery.