William Saliba, the 25-year-old defender for Arsenal and France, sustained a back injury during the 2026 World Cup that will sideline him for an extended period [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The injury occurred during France's semi-final match against Spain on July 18, when Saliba was forced off after just 30 minutes of play [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. He missed the third-place playoff against England on July 20 due to the injury [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
After returning to London, Saliba underwent specialist medical assessments. Arsenal issued a statement confirming that he suffered a back injury requiring rehabilitation, and surgeons advised that surgery is not necessary [3]. The club added that Saliba will begin a carefully managed recovery program immediately [3].
Saliba revealed he had been managing minor back niggles for several months prior to and during the World Cup. He said, "I've had some minor niggles for several months. 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" [1].
Last season, Saliba made 50 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal. He played a key role in helping Arsenal win the Premier League and reach the UEFA Champions League final [1, 5]. His extended absence leaves a gap in Arsenal's defense ahead of their Premier League title defence.
Arsenal’s next fixtures include the Community Shield match against Manchester City, scheduled for Sunday, August 16, 2026 [1]. The Premier League season kicks off with Arsenal hosting promoted Coventry City at home on either August 21 or 22, 2026 [1, 2, 4, 5].
Other Arsenal players Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice also faced injuries during the World Cup but returned to play in the third-place playoff, unlike Saliba [3]. Arsenal will monitor Saliba’s progress closely as he recovers from the back injury while the club begins the new season without him on the pitch.
