Arsenal, France Defender William Saliba's Injury Worsens, Surgery Fears Rise

William Saliba could need back surgery immediately after the World Cup, so he may miss the start of Arsenal’s next season.
Despite worsening pain, he was cleared to join France and even played the full 120 minutes in the Champions League final — he’s expected to be a key option for Deschamps.
The 2026 World Cup runs June 11–July 19; France open Group I against Senegal on June 16 — a big storyline for club and country fans.