Saliba out for ‘prolonged period’ with back injury for France at World Cup

Arsenal say defender William Saliba will be out for a ‘prolonged period’ after picking up a back injury in world championship for France.

The centre-back will not need surgery on the injury that saw him substituted in the 30th minute of France’s semi-final defeat by Spain, but is likely to miss a significant chunk of Arsenal’s games Premier League title defense.

Saliba was one of the standout players in the Gunners’ title-winning campaign last season, making 50 appearances in all competitions.

Arsenal begin their 2026-27 campaign against Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday, August 16, before the Gunners kick off the Premier League season against Coventry five days later.

An Arsenal statement said: “William Saliba has returned to us from the World Cup, where he played an important role in France reaching the semi-finals of the competition.

« Subsequent tests by specialists on William’s return to London this week confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation.

“Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William must now begin a managed recovery programme.

« William’s rehabilitation will begin immediately, with ongoing treatment of his injury and he is expected to be sidelined for an extended period.

« Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to make sure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible. »

Saliba injury: Do Arsenal need a new centre-back?

Arsenal already knew they would be without their main centre-back for some time, but news of the length of that absence will almost certainly see them step up their search for a new defender.

Ezri Konza and the unattached John Stones have been mentioned as potential targets, with Aston Villa reportedly having a £30m bid rejected for the former.

Villa are likely to demand a lot more from the England international, which could make Stones a more viable option, although questions remain over the former Manchester City man’s fitness.

The 32-year-old played five times for the Three Lions at the World Cup, including every minute of the quarter-finals and semi-finals, but started just five times for City in the Premier League last season.