Saliba Returns to Arsenal First-Team Training

William Saliba has returned to Arsenal’s first-team training after an extended absence with a back injury, but his participation does not confirm when he will be ready to play. He trained with the squad on Tuesday, ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League match against Slavia Prague on Wednesday. Reports about Saliba’s treatment differ. Arsenal said in July that the injury did not require surgery and that he would need an extended rehabilitation period. Other accounts describe him as having undergone lower-back surgery, while another says he and the club chose treatment without surgery. The available accounts do not resolve whether an operation took place. Saliba has not played since being substituted during France’s World Cup semifinal against Spain, around 30 minutes into the match. The injury had kept him out of Arsenal’s matches, and reports say he had resumed individual training before joining the squad session. Tuesday’s team training marks a step in his return, but does not establish that he is match fit. Arsenal’s match at Slavia Prague is scheduled for Wednesday. Reports differ on whether Saliba could be included in the travelling squad, and the club had not confirmed his...