Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta will soon face a major defensive dilemma.
But it will both please the Arsenal boss and be the envy of other top teams on the continent.
That’s because William Saliba, a key figure in the Gunners’ title win last season, has returned to training after missing the entire campaign so far with a back injury following France’s World Cup semi-final loss to Spain.
The 25-year-old has been one of the Premier League’s best defenders in recent seasons but – in his absence – summer signing Ezri Konsa has stepped up seamlessly to help Arsenal return to the top of the table.
Indeed, since Konsa’s £55million arrival from Aston Villa, he and Gabriel Magalhaes have formed a formidable partnership as Arsenal once again boast the tightest defense in the league, conceding just five goals in nine games.
Saliba was dealing with a back problem last season, but was referred to a specialist after the World Cup.
It was decided that he would not need surgery, but would require a long rehabilitation. No time frame has been set for his return.
The France international has been training individually at Arsenal’s base but has now returned to full training ahead of the Champions League clash with Slavia Prague and a busy festive schedule ahead.
Saliba and regular partner Gabriel were a big reason why the Gunners won their first Premier League title in 22 years last season.
Their partnership was the bedrock of Arteta’s side, who conceded just 27 league goals. Saliba was then named PFA team of the year for the fourth time in a row.
Arsenal have always said they would be cautious with Saliba’s return, but his return to action will leave Arteta with some tough choices to make in his back line.