Arsenal's official 2026-27 squad photograph notably excluded William Saliba, a pivotal defender. The club quickly clarified his absence was due to a pre-existing medical appointment that coincided with the scheduled shoot, not anything sinister. Saliba sustained a back injury during France's semifinal loss to Spain at the 2026 World Cup on July 14, and has been sidelined since. His previous injury absence in 2022-23 significantly impacted Arsenal's Premier League title challenge, which they ultimately lost to Manchester City. The 25-year-old resumed individual training on grass in early October, a positive step in his rehabilitation. Manager Mikel Arteta provided an update, stating Saliba's return is still "weeks" away, with potential appearances before or after the November international break. Ezri Konsa, signed in the summer, has been covering for Saliba, but Arsenal eagerly awaits the return of their key center-back.