After a season and a half away, William Saliba finally returned to London Colney to report for pre-season training on Monday. The French defender has spent the past 18 months on loan at Nice and Marseille, impressing particularly with the latter his performances saw him named Ligue 1 young player of the year.
Despite his impressive displays out in France there have still been some uncertainties over his future at Arsenal where he is still yet to make his competitive senior debut, despite having signed in the summer of 2019. However, Saliba himself appeared to put that to bed by confirming that his intention was to return to North London in an interview last month.
“I will be back with Arsenal," the 21-year-old said. "I have played zero matches and I still want to show them my true face and have the chance to play for these fans and this great club." And now Saliba's predecessor in central defence at Arsenal Per Mertesacker has delivered his verdict on the next step for the former St. Etienne man.
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"What William has done in France and in Marseille is magnificent," the German said. "So for us to test him this summer and see what’s best for him. He has clearly made his mark with his young age, playing in a major league in Europe and being one of the best players says it all, so why not use him?"
There still remains some doubt over Saliba's future though due to the fact that he has only two years remaining on his contract with Arsenal. The Frenchman's agent was at London Colney on Monday amid talks over a potential extension, but it is not yet clear whether he has committed to a new deal.
Saliba is set to travel with the first team squad when they fly out to America on Wednesday for their pre-season tour. Having returned so recently it's not yet clear whether he will be ready in time for their first fixture against Everton on Saturday, July 16 in Baltimore, but the hope will be that he feature heavily in the games against Orlando City and Chelsea in Florida.
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