Saliba injury forces Arsenal to consider Konsa move

William Saliba’s back injury has left Arsenal seriously concerned. The centre-back was forced off during France’s World Cup semi-final against Spain in North America, and the Gunners fear they could be without one of their key defenders for a lengthy spell.

The 25-year-old has struggled with back problems for some time and may now require surgery, which could keep him out for around four to five months.

Arsenal consider their options

As a result, Arsenal are already assessing possible replacements. According to The Guardian, the club have shown interest in Ezri Konsa, the Aston Villa defender who has also been a regular in England’s World Cup squad.

Konsa has featured throughout the tournament, although he began the semi-final against Argentina on the bench.

Who is Konsa?

The 28-year-old is a versatile defender who can also play at right-back. He has developed into a key figure at Aston Villa, whom he joined in the 2019/20 season, and has since made 286 appearances, scoring 12 goals.

Since 2024, Konsa has become a regular for England, winning 27 caps and scoring once.