Arteta Confirms Arsenal Will Retake Squad Photo With Saliba
Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal will arrange a second official squad photograph including William Saliba after the injured defender missed the first shoot, while the France international is due for another MRI scan next week on his back problem.
Saliba photo will be retaken
Saliba’s omission from Arsenal’s published team photograph prompted concern among supporters, particularly with the centre-back currently unavailable through injury. Arteta said the decision was not linked to any fresh setback.
The Arsenal manager explained that the club had already failed to complete the planned photo session on three occasions because of late logistical issues. With commercial commitments in place and people having travelled for the shoot, Arsenal opted to go ahead with the players available.
Arteta said the club intends to stage another picture featuring the full group and will make an announcement once a suitable date can be arranged.
- Saliba missed the initial official squad photograph.
- Arsenal had previously postponed the session three times.
- The club proceeded because of commitments involving visiting production staff.
- A replacement photo including the full squad is planned.
Arteta also dismissed suggestions that Saliba had been upset by his absence. He said the defender understood the circumstances, was relaxed about the situation and had received some dressing-room banter.
Back injury remains under review
Arsenal’s medical department will reassess Saliba with an MRI examination next week as they track his recovery ahead of a demanding winter period.
There was no indication from Arteta that the defender had suffered a new issue. The scan is intended to establish the progress of his rehabilitation and help determine the next stage of his return.
Arteta addresses Arsenal staffing changes
Arteta was also questioned about the club restructuring that is expected to lead to around 60 job losses. The head coach stressed that the process sits outside his area of responsibility.
He said he had been briefed on an internal review across Arsenal, with the stated aim of improving the club, placing staff in appropriate roles and continuing investment towards future success. Arteta added that others at the club were better placed to answer detailed questions on the redundancies.
What happens next
Arsenal now turn their attention to Sunday’s Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest, where Arteta’s side will look to maintain their recent momentum. Saliba’s next medical scan will follow next week, while plans for the full-squad photograph remain dependent on getting every player together.
