Arsenal's Champions League Squad Boost with Saliba

Arsenal have received a timely lift before their latest tilt at Europe. William Saliba is in their 22-man Champions League squad.

For a fanbase still haunted by that night in Budapest, it matters. Arsenal’s last act in the competition was a penalty shootout defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in May, Gabriel blasting his kick over as the Ligue 1 side kept their crown. Saliba had been at the heart of that run, a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s defence, and then his body gave way.

He has not played a minute this season. A back problem, aggravated after months of pushing through the pain, has kept him out. During the World Cup, the Frenchman admitted he had gritted his teeth for Arsenal’s title chase, chasing a first Premier League crown in 22 years while anchoring their European push.

That effort came at a cost. The Gunners have had to live without their defensive leader, forced to reshuffle and then spend.

The club moved aggressively in the market, paying £51million to bring Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa to reinforce the centre of defence. Cristhian Mosquera has stepped in admirably as well, covering the No2 shirt and helping steady the back line in Saliba’s absence.

Now, at least on paper, Arteta’s options look stronger. Saliba’s name on the Champions League list does not come with a return date, but it does come with a message: Arsenal expect him to be involved in this European campaign. For a squad trying to shake off the hangover of that final defeat, the psychological boost is obvious.

The rest of the group underlines the club’s intent. New signings Bruno Guimaraes, Christos Tzolis, Ilan Meslier and Konsa are all registered, giving Arsenal fresh legs and fresh ideas across the pitch. Jurrien Timber is also included despite a stuttering recovery from a persistent groin issue, another calculated gamble that he will be ready when the competition bites.

Arsenal know what it feels like to go the distance in Europe and fall short. With Saliba back on the list and a remodelled supporting cast around him, the question is simple: can this squad turn last season’s pain into something far more ruthless?