Saliba close to returning to Arsenal in December

French journalist Fabrice Hawkins has revealed a new development regarding the condition of Frenchman William Saliba, Arsenal's defender, indicating the possibility of his return to competition in December if the recovery process goes as planned.

William Saliba is currently continuing his rehabilitation program after suffering a back fracture, which has kept him out of Arsenal since the start of the season, following the injury he sustained while playing for France in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Arsenal announced last July that medical examinations confirmed French defender William Saliba is suffering from a back injury that requires a rehabilitation period, without specifying an official return date to the pitch.

Hawkins' update gives Arsenal a potential timeline for their defender's return, confirming that December is not a definitive date, as his return will depend on the progress of his condition and his response to training loads in the upcoming phase.