William Saliba faces extended layoff: Arsenal defender needs back surgery

Arsenal could be without William Saliba for the rest of 2026. The French center-back suffered a significant back injury during the semifinal of the 2026 World Cup and, according to L'Equipe, requires surgery. The 25-year-old was forced off the pitch in the 29th minute of that match after playing through pain for weeks. The discomfort had been lingering since the tail end of the club season but worsened dramatically on the world stage. Medical staff confirmed that an operation is unavoidable, with a recovery window of four to five months. In the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, Saliba made 31 appearances for the Gunners, scoring one goal, picking up two yellow cards, and playing a key role in Arsenal's first league title in 22 years. Now the north London side must plan for a lengthy period without their defensive pillar.