Arsenal Hit by Saliba Injury Blow After World Cup Setback, Player Faces Five Months Absence
Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow after defender William Saliba suffered a back injury during France's 2-0 defeat to Spain in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with reports indicating he could be sidelined for up to five months.
According to French newspaper L'Equipe, the 25-year-old centre-back was forced off after just 30 minutes on Tuesday after experiencing severe back pain. Saliba reportedly informed France's medical staff that his back had "given way" before he was substituted.
The defender is believed to have managed the recurring issue throughout the tournament by following a modified training schedule and missing France's final group-stage match against Norway to aid his recovery. He had previously admitted he played through the discomfort during Arsenal's Premier League-winning campaign and their UEFA Champions League run.
Early assessments suggest the injury could require surgery, potentially ruling Saliba out until December if confirmed.
France manager Didier Deschamps introduced Maxence Lacroix as Saliba's replacement, but the defensive reshuffle could not prevent Spain from securing a 2-0 victory to book their place in the World Cup final.
Saliba was instrumental in Arsenal's historic 2025/26 Premier League triumph, ending the club's 22-year wait for a league title, while also playing a key role in France's journey to the World Cup semi-finals.
A lengthy absence would leave Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with a major defensive challenge ahead of the new season, as the Gunners prepare to begin their title defence without one of their most dependable defenders.
According to French newspaper L'Equipe, the 25-year-old centre-back was forced off after just 30 minutes on Tuesday after experiencing severe back pain. Saliba reportedly informed France's medical staff that his back had "given way" before he was substituted.
The defender is believed to have managed the recurring issue throughout the tournament by following a modified training schedule and missing France's final group-stage match against Norway to aid his recovery. He had previously admitted he played through the discomfort during Arsenal's Premier League-winning campaign and their UEFA Champions League run.
Early assessments suggest the injury could require surgery, potentially ruling Saliba out until December if confirmed.
France manager Didier Deschamps introduced Maxence Lacroix as Saliba's replacement, but the defensive reshuffle could not prevent Spain from securing a 2-0 victory to book their place in the World Cup final.
Saliba was instrumental in Arsenal's historic 2025/26 Premier League triumph, ending the club's 22-year wait for a league title, while also playing a key role in France's journey to the World Cup semi-finals.
A lengthy absence would leave Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with a major defensive challenge ahead of the new season, as the Gunners prepare to begin their title defence without one of their most dependable defenders.
