Arsenal confirm that defender William Saliba will be sidelined for an “extended period” due to a back injury sustained while playing for France at the World Cup. Multiple reports say Saliba experienced the issue during France’s run to the semi-finals and was affected throughout the tournament, including limiting his training. Arsenal’s statement indicates that surgery is not required, but the club expects an extended rehabilitation period. Reports also note that Saliba was substituted during France’s semi-final after about 30 minutes as the injury affected him during the match.
While outlets differ slightly in phrasing, they agree on the overall timeline: the injury occurs during the World Cup, Arsenal announce an extended layoff afterward, and the immediate medical news is that Saliba does not need back surgery. Coverage frames his recovery as a rehabilitation process that will keep him unavailable for selection for the foreseeable future.
