William Saliba targets November Arsenal return after beginning running programme

William Saliba has taken a significant step in his recovery from a back injury by running for the first time, with the Arsenal defender aiming to return to competitive football in November.

The France international has not played for Arsenal this season after the club announced in July that he would be sidelined for “a long period”. Saliba developed the problem after returning from the World Cup, where he played only 30 minutes of France’s semi-final defeat by Spain, the eventual winners of this year’s tournament.

There had initially been concern that the 25-year-old might require surgery. Arsenal later confirmed that an operation would not be necessary, but said he would instead need “a long period of rehabilitation” before regaining his usual level.

Saliba’s absence has given Ezri Konsa an important role since his summer move to Arsenal. The new signing has started the club’s past three matches alongside Gabriel.

According to English newspaper Metro, citing French publication L’Equipe, Saliba used painkillers to help him through much of the latter part of last season and the World Cup. He was reportedly often unable to move freely for between 24 and 48 hours after matches.

The defender is said to be receiving daily treatment and massages, as well as attending daily physiotherapy sessions with Arsenal’s specialists. The club is taking a cautious approach to his rehabilitation as it seeks to manage the recovery of its central defender.

Saliba has now replaced cycling with running as part of his programme. His return to first-team action will ultimately depend on how his body responds during the coming weeks.

However, the former Saint-Etienne player is reportedly targeting a comeback in November, provided his recovery continues at its current rate and he suffers no further setbacks.

The international break has also allowed Saliba to make the most of some time away from Arsenal. He has left London to spend several days resting in Ile-de-France, the region in north-central France.