Arsenal centre-back William Saliba reportedly claimed he has suffered a back injury during France’s semi-final game against Spain in the World Cup.
The Gunners defender has been managing back issues since last season, and manager Mikel Arteta and the Emirates Stadium club have been worried about his fitness.
Saliba was withdrawn from the game and is likely to be unavailable for the final or third-place game depending on tonight’s result.
https://twitter.com/LaurensJulien/status/2077113384240070993
The club have been worried about William Saliba and his back issues. I reported a few weeks ago he may even need some sort of procedure to fully heal. Rice is dragging himself through the WC. Saka? Well we already know his documented issues.
— HandofArsenal (@HandofArsenal) July 14, 2026
The 25-year-old France international has featured in six games at the World Cup so far, but it appears he has played his last game at the tournament.
Arsenal will hope Saliba is available to feature when the season starts, but he could miss a large chunk of pre-season due to his knock tonight.
The North London club are looking to sign another centre-back this summer, and an injury to the Frenchman could leave them with no option.
They could also be sweating on the fitness of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.
The England duo are available to face Argentina tomorrow night and Arteta will hope they emerge unscathed afterwards.
Arsenal cannot afford to head into the new season with several injury blows and will be desperate for some good news on Saliba and others.
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