William Saliba can’t play for Arsenal this season but could train with his new teammates after the cancellation of Ligue 1, according to reports in France.

Marseille's Argentinian forward Dario Benedetto (L) vies for the ball with Saint-Etienne's French defender William Saliba (R) during the French L1 football match between Saint-Etienne (ASSE) and Marseille (OM) on February 5, 2020, at the Geoffroy Guichard Stadium in Saint-Etienne, central France. (Photo by JEAN-PHILIPPE KSIAZEK / AFP)
Marseille forward Dario Benedetto (L) vies for the ball with William Saliba (R) on February 5, 2020. (Photo by JEAN-PHILIPPE KSIAZEK / AFP)

RMC claim William Saliba will join up with Arsenal early, given the early conclusion to the French domestic campaign, but he won’t be able to play for his new club this season.

Saliba’s loan to Saint-Etienne ends on June 30th, meaning he’ll officially rejoin Arsenal. Whilst some clubs with Arsenal loanees will hope for a short-term loan extension, Ligue 1 is off, so there’s no benefit to Saliba staying.

We don’t yet have confirmation over the Coupe de France final – PSG versus Saint-Etienne. It’s possible it will still take place, but not until September. By that point, Arsenal will probably need Saliba for their own matches.

It’s a shame for the centre-back to miss his first cup final. But at least this means he can join up with his new Arsenal teammates as soon as they can return to training.

Latest Arsenal injury updates and news

According to the report, Saliba won’t be able to play for the Gunners this season. He is registered in the official Premier League Arsenal squad for the season, but currently still contracted to Saint-Etienne.

Even after June 30th when that contract ends, it’s unlikely the Premier League will allow him to take part. I still wouldn’t rule it out completely, but the French media seem pretty sure.

Latest Arsenal injury updates and news