Arsenal choose rehab over surgery for Saliba after World Cup woes

Arsenal announced that 25‑year‑old centre‑back William Saliba will miss an extended spell and will not undergo surgery, opting instead for a prolonged rehabilitation programme – a stark reversal of the early expectation that the French defender would need an operation after his painful FIFA World Cup ordeal.

When the injury first resurfaced, many expected William Saliba to face surgery. The former Marseille loanee described the condition as excruciatingly painful.

Following a fresh medical assessment after the World Cup, Arsenal’s medical team – the Premier League champions’ staff – re‑examined the case and concluded that operating would not be the optimal route, overriding earlier speculation.

In an official statement, Arsenal confirmed that Saliba will not undergo any surgical procedure. Instead, the French defender will embark on an extended rehabilitation programme.

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The prognosis of his chronic back injury is now clearly defined, allowing the Gunners centre‑back to focus on regaining full fitness. The plan aims to restore his readiness for first‑team minutes.

Saliba’s back problem first hampered him while representing France at the FIFA World Cup. He missed the group‑stage match against Norway entirely and was forced off in the first half of the semi‑final versus Spain, underscoring the severity of his ailment.

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The contrast between the initial surgery expectation and Arsenal’s current rehabilitation strategy reveals a cautious club approach, while the World Cup setbacks illustrate the injury’s broader impact.

Liam Wraith reported the details, and the club’s statement emphasized the focus on long‑term recovery.