Arsenal explains why Saliba is not in all versions of their team photo

William Saliba’s absence from Arsenal’s official team photograph for the 2026/2027 season has surprised supporters, with fans noticing that the defender was missing after the club released the picture.

His absence attracted attention because he remains an important member of Mikel Arteta’s squad despite his current injury problems . Saliba has not featured for the Gunners since the start of the season as he continues to recover from a back problem.

Arsenal have opted to let him rest rather than undergo surgery , hoping that a conservative approach will allow him to return to action without further complications.