Arsenal's William Saliba Faces Possible Back Surgery After World Cup

Reports indicate that William Saliba, Arsenal's centre-back, might need back surgery shortly after the World Cup due to escalating physical discomfort. Despite managing to play a key role for Arsenal, recent medical evaluations suggest that the defender requires a long-term surgical solution.

According to L’Equipe, Saliba has been coping with a persistent back problem for several weeks. Although this issue did not stop him from playing the full 120 minutes in the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, the pain has reportedly intensified since that match.

Initial concerns arose from Foot Mercato, which suggested a prolonged absence that could have threatened Saliba’s selection for France’s national team under Didier Deschamps. While the defender’s representatives voiced serious worries about the injury, the medical team of the France national squad maintained a more hopeful outlook. A follow-up medical examination on Monday produced favorable results, allowing Saliba to be cleared for participation in the upcoming World Cup.

Arsenal officials had anticipated that Saliba might be unavailable immediately after the tournament due to the necessity of surgery, tentatively planned for late summer. Although the defender is expected to play for Les Bleus, there is growing concern within the Emirates Stadium that he may miss the beginning of the next Premier League season.

Saliba, who appeared in 50 matches during Arsenal’s title-winning campaign, is preparing for his second World Cup, having previously competed in Qatar 2022. He is among the central defenders selected by Deschamps, alongside Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konate, and Maxence Lacroix. France will start their Group I matches against Senegal on June 16, recalling their notable 1-0 loss in 2002.