Arsenal's Saliba Faces Long Layoff After Back Surgery

Both L’Équipe and The Athletic report that Arsenal defender William Saliba will undergo back surgery, a setback that will keep him off the field for several months. The player had to leave the pitch during France’s World Cup semi-final against Spain due to back issues.

French journalist Julien Laurens shared that Saliba described his back as being in very poor condition at the time of injury. It seems he had been managing his pain with strong medication before deciding on surgery.

The operation is expected to bench Saliba for around four to five months. This timeline suggests he won’t be able to return to action for Arsenal until sometime in 2027.

Saliba’s absence will be a blow to both his club and country as they look ahead to upcoming competitions.