Arsenal's Champions League Squad: Saliba Included

Arsenal’s Champions League plans have received a significant lift with William Saliba named in Mikel Arteta’s 22-man squad for this season’s European campaign.

The French centre-back has yet to feature this term after a back problem resurfaced, but his inclusion signals fresh hope that he will play some part as Arsenal try to shake off the sting of last May’s final defeat. The Gunners were beaten on penalties by Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, Gabriel blasting his spot-kick over as the Ligue 1 champions retained their crown.

Saliba’s absence has been one of the great unknowns of Arsenal’s early season. During the World Cup he revealed he had pushed through the pain barrier in the club’s pursuit of a first Premier League title in 22 years, then carried that burden again as Arteta’s side marched to the Champions League final. The cost has been felt since.

There is still no firm date for his return. Arsenal are not putting a timeline on it. But naming him in the squad for the league phase is a clear statement: they expect, and need, him back.

The uncertainty around Saliba forced Arsenal into the market. Ezri Konsa arrived from Aston Villa in a £51million deal to reinforce the heart of the defence, while Cristhian Mosquera has stepped up impressively in the No2’s absence, offering reliability in a role that suddenly carried far more weight.

The reshaped squad has a fresh look beyond the back line. New signings Bruno Guimaraes, Christos Tzolis, Ilan Meslier and Konsa all make the cut, adding depth and personality across the pitch as Arsenal prepare for another gruelling European run.

Jurrien Timber is also named despite a faltering recovery from a persistent groin issue. Like Saliba, his presence on the list hints at cautious optimism inside the club that he will have a part to play when the competition’s intensity rises.

Arsenal know how close they came last season. With Saliba back in the frame, they might just believe they can go one step further.