Arsenal handed new William Saliba boost after France squad announcement

Arsenal have received a boost as center-back William Saliba was omitted from Zinedine Zidane's latest France squad. The 25-year-old defender recently recovered from a back injury suffered during the 2026 World Cup semi-final against Spain and has not played a competitive minute for club or country this season. Manager Mikel Arteta noted that Arsenal had been in close communication with France's coaching staff regarding Saliba's fitness ahead of the selection announcement.

Saliba recently returned to action with a 45-minute appearance in a behind-closed-doors friendly and was included in Arsenal's traveling squad for their Champions League match against Slavia Prague. Staying behind during the international window allows Saliba additional training time to build fitness ahead of crucial fixtures against Newcastle, Borussia Dortmund, and Manchester City.