Arsenal Confirm William Saliba Avoids Surgery but Faces Extended Spell on the Sidelines

Arsenal 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, although the defender will not require surgery.

In an official medical update, the Premier League champions said specialist assessments concluded that surgery was unnecessary and that Saliba would instead begin a managed rehabilitation programme.

Injury Worsened During the World Cup

Saliba had been managing the back problem throughout the World Cup before being forced off after just 30 minutes of France's semi-final defeat to Spain.

The 25-year-old subsequently missed France's third-place play-off against England before returning to London for further medical assessments.

Arsenal Lose a Defensive Leader

Saliba's absence is a major setback for Arsenal as the club prepares to defend its Premier League title.

The French international played a key role in Arsenal's league-winning campaign last season, making 50 appearances across all competitions and establishing himself as one of the team's most influential defenders.

While the club has not provided a timetable for his return, it confirmed that his rehabilitation has already begun and that his recovery will be monitored closely.

Arteta Faces Early Defensive Challenge

Saliba's injury leaves manager Mikel Arteta without one of his first-choice centre-backs ahead of the new campaign.

Arsenal are scheduled to begin the defence of their Premier League title against newly promoted Coventry City on 21 August, and the club will now have to prepare for the opening weeks of the season without the French defender.

The Gunners have expressed confidence that Saliba will make a full recovery, with the immediate priority now focused on rehabilitation rather than surgery.