Arsenal’s most serious concern is William Saliba. Reports say the France defender could miss up to five months after suffering a back problem, having lasted only 30 minutes against Belgium. That absence would remove a key option from the centre of Arsenal’s defence for a significant part of the campaign.
Jurriën Timber appears closer to returning after a groin injury, while Declan Rice has been managing a nerve issue. Rice returned for England after coming off against Norway, but Arsenal will need to manage his workload carefully.
Manchester United face an even longer midfield problem. Manuel Ugarte suffered a serious knee injury against Spain and is expected to miss at least nine months. Matthijs de Ligt is also a doubt after back surgery, leaving defensive depth under scrutiny.
Chelsea’s position is less clear-cut. Reece James went down late in England’s semi-final after managing an injury during the tournament, while Estêvão’s hamstring problem is expected to have healed by the Premier League start.
Liverpool have a more defined setback. Hugo Ekitike ruptured his Achilles tendon after scoring 17 goals in his debut season, removing a proven attacking option from pre-season planning. Victor Muñoz has also missed Spain’s squad because of a calf issue dating back to last season.
The contrast is important: Chelsea may be planning around uncertain recovery timelines, while Liverpool must prepare for a long-term absence.
The length of the setbacks will influence both training schedules and transfer priorities. A potential five-month absence for Saliba and at least nine months for Ugarte could push their clubs towards additional cover, even if the preferred strategy was to keep existing squads intact.
The next storyline will come when pre-season sessions begin and clubs reassess their squads. Medical updates, return-to-training dates and late-window recruitment could shape the opening weeks more than any tactical change.