Arsenal's title defence hangs precariously in the balance as World Cup woes continue to mount ahead of a gruelling new Premier League season. With just over a month until kick-off and a handful of players nursing injuries sustained during international duty, Mikel Arteta's squad faces a daunting task to regain optimal fitness. The central defender who's been feeling the pinch most is William Saliba – his World Cup semi-final against Spain ended abruptly after 30 minutes when he hobbled off with a back injury that's been dogging him for months.
The French international, who played through pain and gritted his teeth to help Arsenal seal their title, admitted as much. And now, upon returning to London, the Gunners' medical team will get a closer look at the damage – potentially paving the way for surgery that could keep Saliba sidelined for up to four months.
But it's not just Saliba who's causing concern; Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are also racing against time to shake off their respective issues. Both England internationals have been on a non-stop merry-go-round of club and country commitments, culminating in Arsenal playing 63 matches last term – an exhausting schedule that's taken its toll on the pair.
Rice has been battling a hamstring strain and was laid low by illness during the World Cup; Saka, meanwhile, carried a nagging Achilles injury since March but is reportedly now pain-free after careful management from Thomas Tuchel. Both will get 21 days' mandatory downtime upon returning to training – but for Arsenal's squad manager, it's a luxury he can ill afford.
Arsenal had no fewer than 15 players donning their nations' colours in Qatar; eight were still involved in the tournament's final stages as England and France clashed for bronze. David Raya, Mikel Merino, and Martin Zubimendi are part of the Spain squad contesting the showpiece against Argentina, while Noni Madueke, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, and Eberechi Eze will feature in the third-place showdown.
However, it's not all doom and gloom for the Gunners. Ben White is hopeful of being fit for the season opener following knee surgery; Jurrien Timber, who missed much of last term with injury, has made a substitute appearance in the Champions League final, indicating his recovery. And should Saliba face an extended absence, these players – along with potential new signings Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera – could provide crucial cover in the heart of the defence.