Arsenal defender begins recovery after World Cup setback
Arsenal have confirmed that defender William Saliba will be sidelined for an extended period after suffering a back injury while representing France at the FIFA World Cup.
The 25-year-old centre-back had been managing a persistent back problem for several weeks before the tournament but continued to play through the discomfort during Arsenal’s successful campaign and into the World Cup.
Saliba’s injury worsened during France’s semi-final clash against Spain, forcing him to leave the pitch after just 30 minutes. He was subsequently ruled out of France’s bronze-medal match against England.
Following his return to London, Saliba underwent specialist assessment. Arsenal confirmed that surgery will not be required, with the defender instead beginning a carefully managed rehabilitation programme aimed at ensuring a full recovery.
Speaking earlier during the World Cup, Saliba admitted he had been playing through pain for months.
“I’ve had some minor niggles for several months,” he said.
“I’ve been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League. The World Cup comes round only once every four years, so you’ve got to grit your teeth.”
Saliba was one of Arsenal’s standout performers last season, making 50 appearances in all competitions. He played a crucial role as the Gunners ended their 22-year wait for a Premier League title and also reached the UEFA Champions League final.
His absence will be a significant blow for manager Mikel Arteta ahead of the new campaign. Arsenal are scheduled to face Manchester City in the Community Shield on 16 August before opening their Premier League title defence against newly promoted Coventry City five days later.
The club has not provided a timeline for Saliba’s return but described the recovery as an “extended period”, meaning he is expected to miss the start of the new season.
Arsenal’s medical staff will closely monitor his rehabilitation as the club hopes to have one of its key defenders back in action later in the campaign.
