Arsenal dealt William Saliba injury blow with surgery likely

Arsenal are facing a major setback ahead of the new Premier League season, with William Saliba reportedly set to undergo surgery that could sideline the defender for up to five months.

According to L'Équipe, the France international is suffering from a chronic back problem that worsened during France's 2-0 World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, forcing him off after just 30 minutes.

The report claims Saliba has been struggling with persistent back pain for several months and is now expected to undergo further medical examinations before a final decision is made.

However, surgery is currently viewed as the most likely outcome.

If the operation goes ahead, the 25-year-old is expected to face a recovery period of four to five months, dealing Arsenal a significant blow ahead of their title defence and Champions League campaign.

During the semi-final, Saliba reportedly told France teammate Dayot Upamecano: "I can't take it anymore, my back is broken," moments before being substituted.

Saliba was one of Arsenal's standout performers during their Premier League-winning campaign, establishing himself as one of Mikel Arteta's most reliable defenders.

A lengthy absence would leave Arsenal without their first-choice centre-back for the opening months of the season, potentially forcing the club to rely on existing squad depth or reassess their plans in the transfer market.

The club are yet to confirm the extent of the injury or whether surgery has been approved.

Saliba is expected to undergo further medical assessments before a final decision on surgery is made. If the procedure is approved, Arsenal will begin planning for an extended spell without one of their most influential defenders during the opening months of the 2026/27 season.

How big a blow would William Saliba's absence be to Arsenal's Premier League title hopes?