Arsenal defender William Saliba has travelled to Cameroon to spend time with his family following France’s impressive campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The centre-back is reportedly taking advantage of the break after a demanding tournament during which he was said to have played through pain for much of the competition before being substituted during France’s semi-final defeat to Spain.
Despite the injury concerns, Saliba delivered a strong performance at the World Cup and helped France keep four clean sheets during the tournament.
With uncertainty surrounding whether the defender will require surgery or recover through rest, Saliba appears to be using his vacation to take his mind off football and reconnect with his family in Cameroon.
The Arsenal star reportedly travelled to Douala to surprise his grandmother and relatives. A video of his arrival showed Saliba meeting supporters and posing for photographs with fans who were excited to see the French international in the country.
During the visit, Saliba presented Arsenal jerseys to his grandmother and other family members and also shared a traditional meal with them.
Saliba has strong family ties to Cameroon through his mother, who is of Cameroonian descent. Although born in Bondy, France, the defender was eligible to represent Cameroon at international level before choosing to play for France.
The 25-year-old has maintained a close connection with his heritage and regularly visits family members in Douala and Yaoundé.
His latest trip comes as he enjoys a well-earned break following a physically demanding World Cup campaign and amid ongoing uncertainty over the treatment of his injury.
