William Saliba takes a trip to Cameroon, strengthening familial football ties amid his recovery and seems to have confirmed Arsenal’s new home shirt.

LISBON, PORTUGAL - MARCH 09: William Saliba of Arsenal celebrates after scoring the team's first goal during the UEFA Europa League round of 16 leg one match between Sporting CP and Arsenal FC at Estadio Jose Alvalade on March 09, 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
LISBON, PORTUGAL – MARCH 09: William Saliba of Arsenal celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League round of 16 leg one match between Sporting CP and Arsenal FC at Estadio Jose Alvalade on March 09, 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
  • William Saliba visits Cameroon, strengthening ties with his maternal homeland and the local football federation.
  • Saliba’s injury recovery process is on track, indicating his availability for Arsenal’s pre-season.
  • Arsenal and Saliba have begun discussions over a contract extension.

Amid his injury recovery, Arsenal’s defender William Saliba is strengthening his football ties in Cameroon, his mother’s homeland. This journey not only brings a personal connection but also stirs up anticipation for his return to Arsenal.

During his stay in Yaoundé, Cameroon, Saliba took the opportunity to pay a visit to the president of the Cameroon Football Federation (Fécafoot), Samuel Eto’o.

https://twitter.com/ghanagooner/status/1658607824060968962

His presence at the second day of the Cameroonian championship play-offs following an invitation by the Fécafoot president only enhanced the connection he shares with the country.

Although Saliba’s journey is enriched with personal and cultural experiences, it’s his professional ties with Arsenal that hold the gaze of football fans worldwide.

The French international, who is currently observing a period of rest following his back injury, is reportedly set to return to the pitch at the end of June or early July.

This timeline places him back in action just in time for Arsenal’s pre-season fixtures.

https://twitter.com/TheCameroonianZ/status/1658840852175675392

Speculation is also rife about Saliba’s contract extension with Arsenal, fuelling further anticipation.

Talks have reportedly begun, and there’s confidence within the club that a deal can be agreed upon.

Saliba’s current contract, set to expire in 2024, has grabbed the attention of fans, especially with manager Mikel Arteta expressing a keen interest in retaining the centre-back.

William Saliba’s home gym raises Arsenal fan eyebrows

While on his trip, Saliba was pictured holding up what appears to be Arsenal’s new home kit for the 23/24 season:

This fits with leaks we’ve already reported:

Leaked photo of the Arsenal 2023/24 Home Kit (Photo via Footy Headlines)
Leaked photo of the Arsenal 2023/24 Home Kit (Photo via Footy Headlines)

Leaked: Promotional picture of Arsenal players in 2023/24 kit

According to Footy Headlines, independent retailers will only begin selling Arsenal’s 2023/24 home kit from June 9th, 2023, debunking previous reports that the team would debut the kit in the 2022/23 season.

While Arsenal might sell the kit earlier, it is unlikely to be worn by the players until pre-season.

The home kit, adorned in a “Better Scarlet” red with white raglan sleeves, golden logos, a zap-line pattern and golden trim, will officially be unveiled and on sale in less than a month.