Saliba forced off with back injury as France fall behind Spain in World Cup semi-final

William Saliba was forced off with a back injury just 30 minutes into France’s World Cup semi-final against Spain in Dallas on Tuesday, dealing Didier Deschamps’ side a significant blow as they chased the game after falling behind.

The Arsenal centre-back slumped to the turf with no opponent near him and signalled to the bench before being replaced by Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix. The substitution compounded an already difficult evening for France, who had conceded a penalty in the 22nd minute when Lucas Digne fouled in the box, with Mikel Oyarzabal converting to give Spain the lead.

Saliba’s withdrawal was not entirely unexpected. The 25-year-old had been managing a back problem throughout the tournament, with France reportedly adjusting his training schedule between matches to keep him available. Despite the issue, he had been one of his country’s standout performers and completed 90 minutes in five of their six games prior to the semi-final.

His presence had been central to France’s defensive solidity — along with Spain, they were the only two nations to avoid conceding first at any point in their respective runs to the last four.

The injury raises immediate concerns about Saliba’s availability for a potential World Cup final, should France find a way back into the tie against Spain. Beyond the tournament, Arsenal supporters will also be monitoring his recovery closely. The Premier League champions are scheduled to face Manchester City in the Community Shield on 16 August before beginning their title defence against Coventry City on 21 August.

Saliba featured 50 times across all competitions last season as Arsenal ended a 22-year wait to claim the Premier League title and reached the Champions League final, underlining just how indispensable he has become to both club and country.