Arsenal centre-back William Saliba may avoid surgery for the back fracture that ended his World Cup campaign, though the defender still faces several months on the sidelines. L’Équipe reports that an operation is not currently the preferred option, with a joint decision between the 25-year-old and his club expected early next week.
The France international was withdrawn after half an hour of Les Bleus’ semi-final defeat to Spain on Tuesday, having played through the tournament despite significant discomfort. France manager Didier Deschamps described the injury as “problematic” and revealed that medical scans undertaken on Wednesday confirmed the condition was not worsened during the Spain match.
Deschamps offered insight into Saliba’s determination to continue, explaining: “He’s had this since March and has been gritting his teeth, but the pain had reached an unbearable level.” The defender will play no part in Saturday’s third-place play-off against England in Dallas.
Treatment regime
RMC Sport reported that Saliba suffered a fracture in his back, with conflicting accounts regarding when the damage initially occurred. While Deschamps suggested the problem dates back to March, other reports indicate the centre-back sustained the injury during a Premier League match approximately one month before the World Cup.
What is clear is the extent of medical management required to keep him operational in Qatar. The Arsenal defender relied on painkillers and daily treatment throughout the tournament, missing several training sessions to ensure he could feature in matches. Despite these limitations, he started six complete games before his body finally gave way against Spain.
Arsenal implications
The extended absence represents a significant blow for the Gunners, who must plan their defensive line-up without their first-choice centre-back for the foreseeable future. Should Saliba avoid surgery, he will still face a lengthy healing protocol rather than an immediate return to training.
Arsenal are working closely with the player’s representatives and medical team to finalise the recovery plan, with the club bracing for an extended period without one of their most consistent performers.