Arsenal defender William Saliba was forced off during France's World Cup semi-final meeting with Spain on Tuesday night.
Luis de la Fuente's men were awarded a penalty when Lamine Yamal went down after Luis Digne unintentionally kicked him. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and fired past Mike Maignan to put the Spaniards in front in the 22nd minute.
Didier Deschamps was handed another setback in the 30th minute after Saliba went down injured. The Gunners centre-back couldn't continue, limping off and being replaced by Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix.
Saliba's fitness had been a concern heading into tonight's game, and he missed training sessions as fears grew over his availability. He made the starting lineup but grimaced with pain just half an hour into the semi-final at Dallas Stadium.
What Injured Saliba Said During France vs Spain
William Saliba at the 2026 World CupREUTERS/Pilar Olivares
Not only were France thrown a massive headache when Saliba came off, but Arsenal will be praying it's nothing serious. He's a key man in Mikel Arteta's defence, and his club manager won't want any of his players returning from the World Cup injured.
From the sounds of it, the 25-year-old might face a spell on the sidelines. French reporter Julian Laurens claimed that the Gunners man could be seen saying, "My back is gone, my back is gone."
Saliba has been put on a modified training programme during the tournament to manage his back pain. He has seemingly played through the pain barrier, playing every minute of his country's campaign until tonight.
Trusted Arsenal insider HandofArsenal on X reports that Arsenal have been "worried" about Saliba's back issues. He might require a procedure to "fully heal."
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Saliba Gets Rest Amid Arsenal Pre-Season
William Saliba of Arsenal on the ball
William Saliba of Arsenal during the Premier League match Everton vs Arsenal at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool, United Kingdom, 20th December 2025 (Photo by Alfie Cosgrove/News Images)
Saliba will get some well-earned rest once the World Cup concludes, as Arsenal players who have reached the latter stages aren't expected back for pre-season until August. Those who reach the final are set to return to the club on August 10th, giving them plenty of time to recharge their batteries.
Arteta will have been pleased to see Gabriel Magalhaes come through Brazil's campaign unscathed, although his nation's early exit might mean his mood is low. He and Saliba were instrumental in the North Londoners' Premier League title win and their coach will be eager to have them fit in preparation for next season.
Lucas Digne and Lamine Yamal Related
World Cup: Why Spain Got Penalty vs France Despite Lamine Yamal Handball Before Foul
Spain took the lead against France following an early penalty decision that saw Lucas Digne commit a foul on Lamine Yamal.
The Gunners' first game of the 2026-27 campaign takes place on August 21st, when they host newly promoted Coventry City at the Emirates. Before that, they are involved in friendly action against Borussia Dortmund and have a Community Shield clash with Manchester City on August 16th.