Key Takeaways:
- William Saliba played in all seven of France’s World Cup matches while managing a back fracture sustained a month prior in a Premier League fixture
- The Arsenal defender required painkillers, daily therapy, and missed several training sessions to remain available for Les Bleus’ line-up
- Saliba was forced off after thirty minutes in the semi-final against Spain and is now set for a months-long spell on the sidelines as he recovers
Saliba’s World Cup Campaign Under Difficult Circumstances
William Saliba (25) demonstrated remarkable resilience during France’s World Cup journey. Despite carrying a back fracture incurred a month before the tournament in a Premier League match, Saliba participated in all seven of France’s fixtures, defying significant physical adversity.
🚨William Saliba played for France at the World Cup with a back fracture.
The defender suffered the injury two months ago while playing for Arsenal and has been taking pain killers before every match to feature at the World Cup.
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Pain Management and Training Limitations
To ensure his fitness for each match, the AS Saint-Étienne academy graduate underwent daily treatment and relied on painkillers. This demanding routine forced Saliba to skip several training sessions in order to preserve his condition for actual match play.
Semi-Final Setback and Recovery Outlook
Saliba started in France’s semi-final clash against Spain, but his involvement was cut short after only thirty minutes, as he was unable to continue due to the persistent injury. While the specific duration of his forthcoming absence remains unconfirmed, Saliba is expected to be unavailable for several months while he embarks on a full recovery. This development represents a major setback for Arsenal, who depend heavily on the French centre-back.
