How the World Cup has affected your Premier League team

The article discusses how the 2026 World Cup has impacted Premier League teams, focusing on player injuries and transfer movements. It highlights specific concerns for Arsenal regarding key players like William Saliba, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka.
Why it matters
Understanding player fitness and squad changes is critical for fans and analysts tracking the competitive landscape of the upcoming Premier League season.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Bukayo Saka, Alexis Mac Allister and Kobbie Mainoo will return to Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United after very different World Cup experiences
Now Spain have been crowned world champions after victory over Argentina in New Jersey, attention will quickly shift to the new domestic season.
The Premier League was well represented in North America, with all 20 of the top-flight teams for 2026-27 having at least one player involved.
From injuries to transfers, here is how the World Cup has impacted your Premier League team.
When the World Cup finishes, the football continues on BBC Sport
Published 11 July Arsenal Image source, Getty Images Image caption, William Saliba went off during the first half of France's semi-final defeat by Spain
Football reporter Arsenal may be the Premier League team affected most by the World Cup.
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