Arsenal defender William Saliba skips surgery and faces months out

French centre‑back William Saliba confirmed he will not undergo surgery for the chronic back injury that forced him off in the World Cup semi‑final against Spain. After consultations with Arsenal medical staff, the 25‑year‑old will instead embark on a managed rehabilitation program, with the club estimating an absence of several months but giving no specific return date.

The decision leaves Arsenal, the reigning Premier League champions, without one of their key defenders as they prepare for the 2026‑27 season. The club has also announced that defender Ben White has fully returned to first‑team training after a knee injury, while fellow defender Jurrien Timber is making gradual progress toward full fitness. These updates highlight Arsenal’s broader defensive injury challenges heading into pre‑season and early league fixtures.

Saliba’s injury history dates back to March, and his omission from France’s World Cup campaign and Arsenal’s recent matches underscores the impact on both club and national team performance.