The France international was unavailable for the original session because of a medical appointment as he continues his recovery from a back injury. His absence attracted attention because he was the only first-team player missing, while the club’s dog, Win, featured prominently.
Manager Mikel Arteta explained that the club had already tried to arrange the shoot on three occasions before finally proceeding without the defender.
“What happened was that we have tried to do that picture three times already, but we have had to cancel it at the last minute for different reasons,” Arteta said, in comments reported by The Sun.
“We have some commercial obligations and had people who came and flew over to do that, so we decided to do that picture at least.
“We’ll have another picture with the whole family. Hopefully we can get them all together at some point one day, and will announce that as well.”
Arteta also dismissed any suggestion that Saliba had been responsible for his absence or was unhappy about the decision.
“It wasn’t in his hands. Normally he’s happy about everything. He knows how loved he is. They were taking some banter all of the players. He’s completely fine.”
Saliba has yet to feature for Arsenal this season as he works his way back from the injury. He remained involved around the training ground, but the club have been cautious about his return after a lengthy period on the sidelines.
The 25-year-old was an important part of Arsenal’s Premier League title-winning campaign last season, making 50 appearances. His continued absence leaves Arteta managing his options at centre-back, with the club also reportedly considering whether to strengthen that area in the winter transfer window.
Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae has been linked with a possible move to north London, although there has been no confirmed agreement.
Arsenal have started their title defence strongly and sit second in the league ahead of their trip to Nottingham Forest. The planned second photograph will ensure Saliba is included in the official record of a squad in which he remains a central figure, even while his injury keeps him out of action.