Arsenal rule out surgery on injured Saliba

Arsenal have confirmed that William Saliba will not undergo surgery on his back injury but will be sidelined for an extended period.

Saliba was substituted in the 30th minute of France’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain.

“William Saliba has returned to us after the World Cup, where he played an integral role in France reaching the semi-finals of the competition,” read Arsenal’s statement (via Sky Sports).

“Subsequent specialist checks following William’s return to London this week have confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation.

“Comprehensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now begin a managed recovery programme.

Also read: World Cup 2026: I have been playing in pain for France –Saliba

“William’s rehabilitation will begin immediately, with ongoing treatment of his injury, and he is expected to be out of action for an extended period.

“Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”

In more positive news for Arsenal, Ben White is back in pre-season training following the knee injury he suffered in May.

The England international suffered the injury during the crucial 1-0 victory over West Ham in the Gunners’ penultimate match of the 2025/26 Premier League season. He was subsequently ruled out of the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Jurrien Timber, however, is still rehabilitating from the groin injury that kept him out of the World Cup. The defender said that “I hope he comes back soon.”

Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori are also back for pre-season and can replace the centre-backs if necessary.

Piero Hincapié is expected to return to training next week after Ecuador’s elimination in the round of 32 of the World Cup. Saliba’s accomplice Gabriel Magalhaes is also expected to join the rest of the team soon.