A recent X-ray reportedly showed that Saliba’s recovery is progressing as planned. The 25-year-old is understood to be eager to return, but he is not expected to accelerate the process.
That caution matters. Saliba had experienced fitness issues before the tournament, and a rushed comeback could risk interrupting the rehabilitation cycle. Running is an encouraging step, but it does not mean the centre-back is ready for competitive action.
Arsenal moved for Ezri Konsa after Saliba’s injury, and the summer signing has reportedly performed well in his absence. That has given Mikel Arteta a reliable option while the France international follows his recovery programme.
Konsa’s form reduces the pressure on Arsenal to bring Saliba back prematurely. It also allows Arteta to preserve the defensive balance that has developed during the opening weeks of the season, rather than changing the line before Saliba is fully prepared.
Saliba remains central to Arsenal’s defensive structure. His established partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes has been a major part of the club’s recent success, including the Premier League title and Champions League final run last season.
His return would therefore offer more than extra depth. It would restore a familiar pairing, improve Arteta’s rotation options and potentially raise the level of Arsenal’s defence during a demanding league and European schedule.
For now, the immediate storyline is whether Saliba can progress from running to full training without setbacks. Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures will test Konsa’s continued reliability, while November remains the key window for a possible return.