Arsenal Football Club have confirmed that William Saliba will be sidelined for an extended period after suffering a back injury during France’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
The club revealed that specialist assessments carried out after his return to London identified the issue, but the positive news is that surgery will not be required. According to reports, the 25-year-old centre-back will begin a managed rehabilitation programme, with Arsenal’s medical staff closely monitoring his recovery.
The club did not provide a specific timeframe for his return, stating only that Saliba will be out for an extended period.Saliba aggravated the injury during France’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, forcing him off after just 30 minutes which also led to him missing the third-place play-off as the issue worsened.
The statement read,
“Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now commence a managed recovery programme. William’s rehabilitation will commence immediately, with continual management of his injury, and he is expected to be out of action for an extended period.”
The French international’s absence is a significant setback for Mikel Arteta ahead of the new season. Saliba has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defence over the past few campaigns, and the Gunners will now have to cope without one of their most influential players as they prepare to defend their Premier League title.
Saliba’s numbers underline his importance to Arsenal’s defensive solidity, combining excellent positioning, dominance in aerial duels, and composure in possession throughout the title-winning season. Arsenal supporters will hope thay he can get back to full fitness sooner before the season gets congested with UEFA Champions League fixtures.