William Saliba appears dejected during Arsenal's match against Liverpool
William Saliba was a notable absentee as Arsenal shared their 2026/27 first-team squad photo on social media.
In the annual image, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta could be seen posing behind the Premier League and Community Shield trophies at their London Colney base.
3Saliba, who is yet to feature this season due to injury, missed out on Arsenal's squad photo for the 2026/27 seasonCredit: Getty
Eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed that Saliba does not feature alongside his manager and team-mates, though, amid his injury absence.
The France defender has been sidelined since July with a back injury.
Saliba was forced off during his nation's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain in the summer.
Despite not requiring surgery on the issue, he has yet to return to action with Arsenal.
Why is Saliba not in Arsenal squad photo?
His absence from the new squad photo had caused concern from supporters online.
However, the club have now explained the reason behind his non-appearance.
Writing on X, Arsenal said: "Due to a medical appointment, William Saliba was not available this afternoon."
It comes as the 25-year-old steps up his recovery ahead of a long-awaited return.
Martinez transfer mooted after Man United outburst: 'That's his agenda'Government makes promise over Man City case as new threat to owners emergesRicharlison deserves credit not ridicule after Tottenham Under-21s appearanceFootball regulator reveals when Man City appeal outcome is expected
Saliba is back training on grass as he eyes a comeback in November.
In his absence, summer signing Ezri Konsa has formed a partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes in central defence.
3Saliba has not featured since picking up a back injury at the World CupCredit: Getty
Meanwhile, Arteta can also call upon Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie in the position.
How long has Saliba been at Arsenal?
Saliba has been a key part of the Gunners' improvement in recent seasons under the Spaniard's stewardship.
He first joined the club as an 18-year-old in 2019, signing from boyhood club Saint-Etienne in his native France.
Having returned to his former side on loan, subsequent stints with Nice and Marseille also followed.
However, Saliba has established himself in the first-team since making his Premier League debut in August 2022.
He has also been named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year in every season since making his top-flight bow for Arsenal.
3Saliba helped Arsenal end their 22-year wait for a Premier League title last seasonCredit: Getty
Across all competitions, Saliba has made 184 appearances as well as scoring eight goals from defence.
Last season's Premier League triumph added to a pair of Community Shield victories during his time in north London.
Saliba's current Gunners deal runs until the summer of 2030 after he penned a new five-year contract in September last year.