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Saliba’s back for Arsenal – how does Arteta solve his defensive dilemma?
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.
In short
- 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.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Saliba’s return gives Arteta access to a defender whose quality and familiarity with Gabriel helped make Arsenal’s defence so effective last season. If he is fully fit, restoring that partnership could strengthen the side for a demanding campaign, while competition for places may keep standards high.
The case against
Arsenal have defended well without Saliba, and Konsa has earned his place through a strong run alongside Gabriel. Bringing Saliba straight back could disrupt a settled partnership or risk asking too much of a player recovering from a back injury; Arteta may have good reason to wait until his fitness is clear.
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