An unexpected blow for France and Arsenal
William Saliba was forced out of the World Cup semifinal against Spain due to injury. After medical examinations in London, it was confirmed that the French defender will have to undergo a long rehabilitation process due to a back injury. Although he will not undergo surgery, specialists have determined that he needs a controlled recovery program that will keep him off the field for several months
Statistics that reflect his impact
During the tournament, Saliba was key in France's defense, starting six times, keeping a clean sheet in four matches, and posting numbers that placed him among the best on the team. He was second in clearances, behind only Upamecano, and led in aerial duels won. His absence not only hurts the national team, but also Arsenal, which loses one of its key players in the midst of preparations to retain the Premier League
Arsenal looks for alternatives in the market
The London club will make its debut on August 21 against Coventry City, with the Community Shield against Manchester City as a prelude. Without Saliba, the management is already considering reinforcements, and the name that is being mentioned the most is John Stones, who is free after a decade at City and who had a good World Cup under Tuchel. The Frenchman's absence forces Arteta to rebuild his defense and rely on the depth of the squad to sustain the ambition for titles in a demanding season