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Arsenal's William Saliba faces lengthy absence due to back injury

Yahoo Sports • 2 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 8:20 PM

Last updated Jul 22, 2026

Arsenal's William Saliba faces lengthy absence due to back injury
Summary

Arsenal's William Saliba will miss an extended period due to a back injury following his return from the World Cup. The club confirmed the 25-year-old underwent extensive medical consultations and will begin a rehabilitation program instead of undergoing surgery. Sources estimate Saliba could be sidelined for around three to four months. His absence poses a significant challenge for manager Mikel Arteta as the Premier League season approaches, necessitating a defensive reshuffle in the squad. The club is focusing on supporting Saliba's recovery, aiming for his return later in the season.

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Status Watch
  • •William Saliba sustained a back injury during World Cup duty.
  • •Arsenal confirmed he will be out for around three to four months.
  • •Saliba will follow a managed rehabilitation program.
  • •His injury could lead to a defensive reshuffle for Arsenal.
  • •Arsenal aims for Saliba's return later in the season.
Latest Updates
  • 2:19 AMYahoo Sports — William Saliba Faces Extended Arsenal Absence After World Cup Back Injury
  • 6:24 AMYahoo Sports — William Saliba set for ‘extended period’ on sidelines with back injury
  • 10:05 PMYahoo Sports — Arsenal defender William Saliba to be sidelined for 'extended period' because of back injury
  • 9:32 PMESPN Soccer — Arsenal say Saliba won't need surgery on back
  • 8:33 PMBBC Sport — Saliba to miss extended period with back injury
  • 8:30 PMYahoo Sports — Official | William Saliba set to be out for extended period but will not undergo surgery
  • 8:20 PMYahoo Sports — Arsenal dealt major injury blow with Saliba set for lengthy spell out
What they're saying
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Arsenal center back William Saliba will avoid back surgery but faces an "extended period” in rehabilitation, the defending Premier League champions said Wednesday. Arsenal confirmed in a medical update that Saliba sustained a back injury. “Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now commence a managed recovery program,” Arsenal said in a statement.

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William Saliba limped off in the 30th minute of France’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain in Dallas, and the pain he was quietly carrying through that match has turned into a longer battle than Arsenal supporters will want to hear about heading into a new season. The club have now confirmed their centre-back needs…

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In an official statement, Arsenal have confirmed that William Saliba (25) will not undergo surgery on his chronic back injury. Despite not needing surgery, the French international defender is set for...

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