‘I hope so’ - Arteta hints at Saliba's return date

Arsenal have been handed a boost with positive news regarding William Saliba's recovery from injury. 

The defender missed Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa with a hamstring problem, with Jurrien Timber filling in at centre-back and Thomas Partey deputising at right-back. 

While Arteta has remained coy on the Frenchman’s situation, the Spaniard confirmed that the defender is making good progress in his recovery.

The Arsenal boss provided an update on Saliba's fitness ahead of the club’s Champions League match with Dinamo Zagreb, stating that he is evolving well and feeling much better. 

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“He's evolving well, the last few days he was feeling much better already but this game comes a bit too soon for him,” said the Arsenal boss. 

Arteta offered hope that Saliba could return in time for Arsenal's Premier League clash with Manchester City on February 2. He said: "Yes, I hope so," when asked about Saliba's potential availability for the City game.

The Gunners host Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday, keen to hold on to their top-eight berth in the expanded Champions League.