World Cup
Arsenal's Saliba avoids surgery but faces long rehab
William Saliba, the Gunners’ central defender, featured for France in the World Cup semi‑final against Spain despite a broken back, yet Arsenal now confirm he will avoid surgery and embark on a lengthy rehabilitation programme. The injury, sustained during the tournament, now requires months of recovery.
Arsenal announced the update on Wednesday evening, stating that specialists have determined Saliba’s back injury does not require an operation but does demand a rehabilitation period. The club’s official website described the decision as based on medical assessment.
The defender returned to London this week, where specialists examined him and identified the need for a controlled recovery programme. Their findings confirmed that surgery would not be advisable.
During the World Cup semi‑final between France and Spain, Saliba suddenly sat down without any player nearby and was forced to be substituted. The incident left spectators puzzled as the Frenchman left the pitch.
A few days after France’s elimination, further details emerged: Saliba had been playing with a vertebral fracture, effectively a broken back, throughout the match. The revelation highlighted the severity of his condition.
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Arsenal explained that Saliba will follow a ‘controlled recovery programme’ starting immediately, and the club expects a longer period without the defender, who was crucial in the championship season for the Gunners. The club emphasized the importance of his gradual return.
The Premier League champions reiterated their status on the website, noting that Saliba’s absence will be felt as they continue their campaign. The announcement underscores the impact of his injury on the title‑defending side.