Arsenal’s season now steps into one of its most demanding stretches, with the Champions League returning and a seismic Premier League encounter looming. For Mikel Arteta, the sight at London Colney on Monday morning was more than routine—it was a glimpse of relief.
Saliba back in full training
William Saliba, who has been nursing an ankle injury picked up at Liverpool last month, was once again spotted in training. His absence was felt during the weekend’s 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, a game that underlined Arsenal’s depth but also reminded supporters of the French defender’s importance.
Arteta admitted that Saliba “needed a few more days” and that the turnaround “had been too quick” to play against Forest. Now, with Manchester City waiting at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, the centre-back’s return could not be better timed. His composure and strength at the heart of the defence may prove vital against Erling Haaland, who continues to score at a frightening pace—11 goals in just five appearances for club and country this season.
Balancing Europe and the league
Before City, there is Bilbao. Arsenal’s Champions League campaign begins in Spain on Tuesday, a reminder of how far this team has come under Arteta but also of the tightrope they must walk. Balancing European nights with the relentless grind of the Premier League is a task Arsenal fans know has tripped up their club before.
Saliba’s recovery offers reassurance, yet not every headline from training carried good news.
Concern for Odegaard
Captain Martin Ødegaard, who was forced off in the Forest match with a shoulder problem, did not train on Monday. His absence casts doubt over his involvement in Bilbao and potentially beyond. Arteta is expected to provide clarity during his pre-match press conference, though losing Ødegaard at such a juncture would be a significant blow.
Arsenal’s defining week
This is the kind of week Arsenal have been building towards. Arteta’s side are no longer outsiders; they are challengers expected to withstand the pressure of Europe while still standing toe-to-toe with Pep Guardiola’s champions. A fit William Saliba strengthens their hand. An absent Ødegaard, however, would weaken it.
The answers will come quickly—Spain on Tuesday, north London on Sunday. By then, we will know whether Arsenal’s resilience stretches beyond promise into proof.
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