Saliba near return as Zubimendi and Hincapie miss Arsenal training

Arsenal Injury News Saliba Nears Return Zubimendi and Hincapie are the latest names in a mixed injury picture for the North London side, with the French centre‑back edging closer to action while two midfield and defensive options remain absent.

After a narrow victory over Leeds at the Emirates, Arsenal’s defence looked vulnerable, underscoring the importance of William Saliba’s return. The win, secured by goals from Riccardo Calafiori and Bruno Guimaraes after James Justin’s opener, left manager Mikel Arteta keen to restore his back line.

Saliba's rehabilitation accelerates

Journalist Sam Dean reported on X that Saliba is back on grass, undertaking individual drills following a lengthy lay‑off caused by a back injury sustained in the World Cup semi‑final against Spain. The 25‑year‑old remains several weeks from full fitness, but the progress suggests he could feature before December, earlier than the initial new‑year estimate.

Zubimendi and Hincapie miss training

Martin Zubimendi was an unused substitute in the Leeds game and was not seen at Monday’s open training, a setback that threatens his place as Myles Lewis‑Skelly and Bruno Guimaraes cement their midfield roles. His absence follows a dip in the pecking order and a fitness concern that could hinder his push for Arteta’s plans.

Arsenal missing two key players for Champions League clash with Lille

Piero Hincapie also missed the session, still dealing with an ankle problem that kept him out of Ecuador’s squad over the international break. The left‑back, who started the season’s first Champions League tie against Napoli, was expected to replace Calafiori against Lille, but his training absence raises doubts about his involvement.

Alfie Cairns Culshaw is a football journalist covering the Premier League for GIVEMESPORT. He joined the outlet in May 2024 and is an avid Arsenal fan and season ticket holder. Previously he worked for SportBible, focusing on Liverpool and Manchester United, delivering transfers, match reports and previews.

Culshaw also creates YouTube content, runs an Arsenal Blog with a strong Instagram following, and has contributed video for CheekySport and articles for The Football Faithful. Known for a level‑head and data‑led analysis, he blends emotional fandom with rigorous Football journalism.

Arsenal missing Hincapié and Zubimendi ahead of clash with LOSC

Injury information is sourced from Premier Injuries, correct as of 12/10/2026, and logged here for fans seeking the latest updates.