Arsenal defender William Saliba has acknowledged that his injury setback played a role in hindering Arsenal’s title challenge during the latter stages of the 2022/23 season.

He expressed: “Yeah, it’s clear with me (fully fit), Arsenal could have been champions, but injuries are a part of football“.

“Last year, I had a good season. Unfortunately, I got injured during the year and at the final sprint.”

Saliba, however, shifted his focus to the current season, emphasizing the team’s new ambitions and the hope for improved performance.

He missed the final two months of the Premier League season due to a serious back injury sustained during Arsenal’s Europa League match against Sporting CP in mid-March.

With Saliba’s current injury status uncertain, it remains to be seen if he will be available to play against Bournemouth in their upcoming match.

Christopher Nkunku, Chelsea‘s summer signing from RB Leipzig, is diligently working on his injury recovery.

The Frenchman has been sidelined with a knee injury since pre-season, which required surgery in early August. His expected return is no earlier than December.

Despite the setback, Nkunku remains in high spirits. He recently shared a photo of himself in his home gym, wearing training gear, and captioned it “Homework.”

Chelsea has felt the absence of Nkunku in their attack this season, struggling to find the back of the net consistently.

Nkunku had an impressive goal-scoring record, bagging 23 goals in all competitions for RB Leipzig last season.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino has had to cope with several other long-term injuries, including Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Reece James, Romeo Lavia, and Carney Chukwuemeka, who have all been sidelined for various reasons.

Manchester United has made an announcement regarding Brazilian winger Antony, who is set to return to training.

Allegations of domestic abuse had been made against the 23-year-old, leading to his discussions with Greater Manchester Police.

Following this interview, no restrictions were imposed on him, and he has reportedly provided evidence supporting his strong denials of the allegations. It’s important to note that he has not been arrested or charged in either Brazil or the UK.

In a statement, Manchester United, as Antony’s employer, stated that he will resume training at Carrington and will be available for selection while police inquiries continue. The situation will be continually reviewed as further developments arise.

Antony is not expected to participate in training on Friday and will not be considered for Manchester United’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Saturday.

This decision follows his absence from four games since United granted him leave on full pay to address allegations made by three different women, including his former partner, Gabriela Cavallin.