Arsenal’s William Saliba will not have surgery on back injury, out for ‘extended period’; John Stones a target
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Arsenal defender William Saliba will undergo a non-surgical rehabilitation program for a back injury sustained during the World Cup, resulting in an extended absence from play.
- Saliba was substituted early in France’s World Cup semi-final against Spain after experiencing discomfort, having played extensively throughout the tournament despite ongoing back issues.
- Arsenal are actively seeking to strengthen their central defense this summer, with England’s John Stones and Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa among their reported transfer targets.
- Stones recently left Manchester City after a decade and has prior experience working with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, making him a strategic acquisition for the club.
- Saliba made 50 appearances last season and played a key role for France at the World Cup, but will now focus on recovery ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League title defense starting on August 21.
