Arsenal is set to evaluate the extent of defender William Saliba's back injury once he rejoins the club after his World Cup commitments. Saliba has been managing a back problem for several weeks, a condition that persisted through the tournament.
The injury appeared to worsen during France's World Cup semi-final match, where he was substituted after only 30 minutes. Club officials will consider all available treatment options, including surgery, upon his return to London. An operation could necessitate a significant period of recovery.
Saliba played a crucial role for Arsenal last season, making 50 appearances across all competitions as the team secured the Premier League title and reached the Champions League final. He had previously spoken about his struggle with the injury, stating he had been playing through discomfort for months.
"I've had some minor niggles for several months," Saliba said earlier in the World Cup. "I've been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League. The World Cup comes round only once every four years, so you've got to grit your teeth."
He missed France's final group stage game before rejoining the squad for the knockout stages. France is scheduled to play England in the third-place playoff.