Saliba Set for Arsenal Team Photo After Missing Initial Snap

William Saliba's absence from Arsenal's team photograph for the 2026/27 season has raised some eyebrows, but Mikel Arteta is on it. The Gunners' boss stated that they plan to retake the photo to include the popular defender, who couldn't make it due to a medical appointment. Fans were left puzzled when Saliba was missing from the official image, especially considering his importance to the squad. The 25-year-old has made 184 appearances for Arsenal and is currently sidelined with a back injury, making his absence all the more noticeable. "We’ve tried to capture that picture three times already, but circumstances forced us to cancel each time," Arteta explained before Arsenal's upcoming match against Nottingham Forest. "With commercial commitments and people flying in, we decided it was best to proceed without him this time. We’ll make sure to get a full team shot soon." Arteta confirmed that Saliba is completely on board with the situation. "It wasn’t up to him, but Willy usually takes everything in stride. He knows he’s well-regarded and has been enjoying some good-natured ribbing from the squad. He’s totally fine with it," he added. Fortunately for Arsenal fans, Saliba has resumed training and is making good progress. Arteta noted that a follow-up scan is on the horizon as the defender inches closer to a return. "We’ll be doing another MRI next week to check how he’s healing. So far, everything looks very promising. We can’t wait to have him back on the pitch!"