For months the 25-year-old has managed chronic back pain through painkillers and a light training program during his time with Arsenal and the France national team.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Saliba collapsed to the ground in agony during Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final between Les Bleus and Spain and reportedly told defensive partner Dayot Upamecano "I can't take it anymore. My back is dead."
According to L’Equipe, the centre back is set to miss a large chunk of next season and that back surgery is now the most likely course of action.
Arsenal are now preparing to be without him for four-five months and may even dip into the transfer market to find a replacement.