Arsenal face extended period without William Saliba

Arsenal defender William Saliba faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines following a back injury sustained during the 2026 World Cup. According to reports from L'Equipe, the 25-year-old is expected to be out of action until the end of 2026.

Saliba is set to undergo surgery on his back, with an estimated recovery period of four to five months. The defender had been managing back discomfort since the end of the club season, but the issue worsened significantly during his side's semi-final match against Spain, which he had to leave in the 29th minute.

This is a major blow for the Gunners, as Saliba played a pivotal role in their recent Premier League title win, which marked the club's first league trophy in 22 years. The French international made 31 appearances in the English top flight this season, recording one goal.