Arsenal have been handed a worrying update on William Saliba's fitness, with reports suggesting the defender may require surgery on a back problem. The 25-year-old has been managing the issue for some time, and it could now threaten his availability for the start of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
According to French outlet L'Equipe, Saliba might need to undergo an operation after the World Cup, if necessary. The centre-back played a key role in Arsenal's Premier League title win and featured for the full 120 minutes in the Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
France manager Didier Deschamps has moved to ease concerns, stating: "He's here, everything is fine." However, Saliba is in a race against time to be fit for France's opening World Cup group fixture against Senegal on June 16.
Should surgery be required, it would cast doubt on Saliba's availability for the start of the Premier League season in August. The defender is still expected to join up with the French squad for a training camp ahead of the tournament.
