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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.”
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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.
