William Saliba targets November return for Arsenal

William Saliba has stepped up his recovery from a back injury and is now targeting a return to action for Arsenal in November.

The France international has not featured for the Gunners this season after carrying a back problem into the summer. He aggravated the issue during France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain in July.

Saliba has been undergoing conservative treatment rather than surgery, and his latest recovery progress has provided encouragement. According to L'Équipe, the defender has returned to running outdoors after a recent scan showed that the healing process is progressing well.

The 25-year-old is reportedly aiming to return at the beginning of November, although Arsenal are not expected to rush him back before he is fully ready.

In his absence, Ezri Konsa and Cristhian Mosquera have provided options alongside Gabriel Magalhães in central defence. Arsenal have also continued to manage their defensive options while waiting for Saliba's recovery.

The Frenchman has made 184 appearances for Arsenal since joining the club and has established himself as one of Mikel Arteta's key defensive players. His return would give the manager another experienced option during a demanding period of the season.