William Saliba Omitted From France Roster as Arsenal Defender Recovers From Back Injury
Arsenal defender William Saliba was omitted from France’s roster for upcoming UEFA Nations League games as he continues to recover from a back injury, USA Today reported. The 25-year-old has been sidelined since the World Cup, a layoff approaching four months after he was removed from a semifinal against Spain.
Saliba recently returned to training and traveled with Arsenal to Prague, where he served as an unused substitute in a 2-1 Champions League victory. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said the club had been in contact with the French federation but would not interfere with selection decisions for the defender, who will play under new France manager Zinedine Zidane.
Ezri Konsa Fills Defensive Gap During Saliba Absence
Due to Saliba’s long-term injury, Arsenal signed England international Ezri Konsa in August. Konsa has delivered stellar performances alongside Gabriel Magalhães, anchoring a defense that has conceded a league-best five goals through nine matches.
Arteta acknowledged Saliba’s eagerness to rejoin the national setup, noting that the defender needs minutes after missing nearly four months of competitive action. Arsenal sits atop the Premier League standings ahead of a home fixture against Hull City in London.
Saliba Misses France Squad Due to Back Injury Recovery
Why was William Saliba excluded from France’s Nations League roster?
Saliba was left off the squad because he is still working back to full match fitness following a back injury sustained during the World Cup semifinals against Spain.
How has Ezri Konsa performed since joining Arsenal?
Konsa joined the club in August and has been stellar alongside Gabriel Magalhães, helping Arsenal record a league-best five goals conceded through nine matches.
What led to Arsenal signing Ezri Konsa in August?
The Gunners secured Konsa’s transfer to offset the long-term absence of Saliba, who required an extended recovery period after injuring his back at the World Cup.
Did you know? Saliba helped Arsenal claim its first Premier League title in 22 years during the previous campaign before suffering his back injury in international competition.
Arsenal hosts Hull City in London as the club looks to maintain its position at the summit of the Premier League table.
Related reading