Arsenal defender Saliba sidelined for ‘extended period’ due to back injury

Arsenal defender William Saliba will be sidelined for an extended period due to a back injury sustained during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While surgery is not required, the player will undergo a managed recovery program before returning to the pitch.
Why it matters
The loss of a key defensive player impacts the competitive outlook for the reigning Premier League champions as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Centre back William Saliba won’t require surgery for injury sustained at World Cup, his club says.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info France's William Saliba picked up a back injury in their World Cup semifinal loss to Spain [File: Hannah McKay/Reuters] By Al Jazeera Staff and Reuters Published On 23 Jul 2026 23 Jul 2026 Arsenal defender William Saliba will be sidelined for an extended period after suffering a back injury while playing for France during the 2026 FIFA World Cup , the reigning Premier League champions say.
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