William Saliba takes a trip to Cameroon, strengthening familial football ties amid his recovery and seems to have confirmed Arsenal’s new home shirt.
- 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.
While on his trip, Saliba was pictured holding up what appears to be Arsenal’s new home kit for the 23/24 season:
William Saliba presenting a fan with a customised gift of Arsenal’s new home kit, yet to be released, during his trip to Cameroon this week. [@karthikadhaigal via Reddit] #afc pic.twitter.com/UdaeW9hF0w
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) May 20, 2023
This fits with leaks we’ve already reported:
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.
