Arsenal, the Premier League champions, have suffered a major setback with centre-back William Saliba ruling out for an extended period due to a back injury.
Saliba managed the injury during France’s World Cup semi-final campaign but was forced off after 30 minutes in their defeat to Spain. Despite avoiding surgery, the 25-year-old will begin a structured rehabilitation programme immediately.
“Specialist assessments confirm William has sustained a back injury requiring rehabilitation,” Arsenal stated. “Although surgery was deemed unnecessary, a managed recovery programme will ensure his full fitness return as soon as possible.”
Following France’s third-place playoff loss to England, Saliba revealed earlier tournament struggles: “I’ve had minor niggles for months, pushing through for Champions League and Premier League commitments. The World Cup’s once-in-four-years significance meant enduring the pain.”
Sign up to
Kick off your evenings with the Guardian’s take on the world of football
after newsletter promotion
Arsenal’s England players Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice also faced tournament injury challenges but featured in the third-place match, with Rice scoring the opening goal and Saka netting a hat-trick.
Also Read
- How Ryan Fox, Shane Lowry, and Nico Echavarria choose their wedge set-ups
- Will Sebastian Berhalter’s MLS career come to an end this season?
- Chelsea Advance in Talks with Crystal Palace for Maxence Lacroix</TITLE]According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea remain optimistic about securing a deal with Crystal Palace for Maxence Lacroix. The Blues are actively seeking defensive reinforcements this summer, with the French center-back emerging as their top priority for the position.Latest Update on Maxence LacroixTransfer expert Fabrizio Romano utilized his platform on X to provide the latest intelligence regarding the ongoing negotiations between the two London-based clubs:“Negotiations continue between Chelsea and Crystal Palace for Maxence Lacroix. #CFC confident to agree on deal as Lacroix wants the move; clubs in direct contact to find solution and get it done.”
- Konstas, Kellaway, Patterson named in CA XI to face Bangladesh