Mikel Arteta has cast fresh doubt over William Saliba’s hopes of returning for Arsenal this season, admitting the defender’s recovery from a back injury is progressing more slowly than hoped.
Saliba has not played since departing early from the Europa League defeat by Sporting on 16 March and Arsenal have not kept a clean sheet in his absence. Their buildup play from the back has also been compromised and Arteta has been eager to welcome him back for the likely title decider at Manchester City on Wednesday. Speaking before Friday night’s match at home to Southampton, though, the manager suggested the chances were receding.
