# Saliba’s back for Arsenal – how does Arteta solve his defensive dilemma?

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/salibas-back-for-arsenal-how-does-arteta-solve-his-defensive-dilemma/
- Published: 2026-11-03T15:07:49+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-04T10:52:22+00:00
- Original publisher: BBC Sport (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cxj0l3pd9jy7o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
- Topics: Art, Culture, Elections, Entertainment, Fitness, Health, Politics, Sport, TV

## Key points

- Saliba is back in full training after a back injury.
- Konsa and Gabriel have helped Arsenal concede five goals in nine league games.
- Arteta faces a selection challenge as Saliba returns.

## Summary

William Saliba has returned to full training, giving Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta a welcome but difficult selection decision as the defender regains fitness. Saliba was central to Arsenal’s title-winning defence last season, but his absence has not disrupted the team’s strong start to the current campaign.

Summer signing Ezri Konsa has partnered Gabriel Magalhaes in most league matches, helping Arsenal concede just five goals in nine games and move to the top of the table. Saliba has been recovering from a back injury without surgery, and Arsenal have not set a return date; the upcoming international break may give him more time to build fitness. Arteta also has established right-back options Ben White and Jurrien Timber to consider as he reshapes the defence.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.