Arsenal published the official squad photo for the 2026-27 season yesterday, but the team was incomplete: French midfielder William Saliba does not appear in the image. The club explained that the absence was due to a “medical appointment,” a reason that has raised doubts among the club's followers.
The forward in the photo, which includes all the team's players, was taken in the Emirates Stadium press room. Although Arsenal often include injured players in official photographs, the absence of Saliba, one of the pillars of the previous campaign who helped them win the Premier League and reach the Champions League final, has caused many fans to question the veracity of the excuse. The club's X post, accompanied by a response thread, did not convince the community, which is wondering why the session was not rescheduled so that the player could appear.
Saliba, 25, has a contract with Arsenal until 2030 and has been sidelined this season. During the 2026 World Cup, held in the United States, Mexico and Canada, the player suffered back discomfort that he had been suffering from before the tournament. He was informed that he had hidden a stress fracture in his spine, which allowed him to participate in the semifinal against Spain until the 28th minute, when the score was 0‑1 in favor of the Spanish team. After the tournament, the midfielder returned to London and was examined by the club's doctors, who opted for conservative treatment.
In recent weeks Saliba has started working on the pitch, doing runs and mobility exercises, and is expected to return to games in November. Arsenal's decision not to include him in the official photo has led to speculation about possible tensions between the player and the club, or the perception that the forward forced his participation in the World Cup at the expense of his health.
Despite the uncertainty, Arsenal maintains its position as Premier League champions and coach MikelArteta continues to consider Saliba as a key element for the season. The player's next appearance is scheduled for November, when he is expected to contribute to the team again in the domestic competition and in the Champions League.