Saliba's return gives Arteta selection headache at Arsenal

Saliba returns to full training after missing the season with a back injury, but Konsa's impressive form alongside Gabriel creates a defensive selection puzzle for Arteta.

William Saliba has returned to full first-team training ahead of Arsenal's Champions League match against Slavia Prague, marking a significant step in his recovery from a back injury that has sidelined him since the World Cup semi-final in December.

The 25-year-old France international, a cornerstone of Arsenal's Premier League title win last season, underwent specialist treatment after the World Cup but did not require surgery. He has been managing his rehabilitation at the club's training base before now joining full group sessions.

However, Saliba's return presents Mikel Arteta with a selection dilemma. Summer signing Ezri Konsa has seamlessly filled the void, forming a formidable partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes. The pair have helped Arsenal maintain the Premier League's tightest defence, conceding just five goals in nine games. Konsa, who arrived from Aston Villa for £55m, has started seven of Arsenal's nine league matches and has impressed both supporters and Arteta with his pace, aggression and commanding displays. He scored in the recent 2-0 win over Everton and put in a strong performance in Sunday's victory at Liverpool.

Arsenal will continue to manage Saliba's fitness carefully during the upcoming international break, but when he is fully available, Arteta will face tough decisions about his defensive lineup.