Ezri Konsa
ARS
Center Back
Ball-Playing Center Back
Oct 23, 1997 (28)
Right
5'11"
161 lb
Dealing with dead leg
Konsa (quadriceps) withdrew from England's squad with a dead leg and returned to Arsenal, and it is unclear whether he will be fit for Saturday's match against Leeds, according to The Standard.
Analysis: Konsa started seven of England's eight games at the World Cup and has been steadily working his way back to full fitness since making the summer switch from Aston Villa to Arsenal. He had been dealing with a dead leg and appears to have aggravated the issue against Croatia despite going the full 90 minutes. If he isn't cleared to play, Riccardo Calafiori could step in alongside Gabriel at the heart of the defense if Cristhian Mosquera (hamstring) or Piero Hincapie (undisclosed) are also unable to start.
Suffers light quad trauma
Konsa was diagnosed with a minor quad injury and ruled out of England's Nations League clash with Czechia on Tuesday, according to England manager Thomas Tuchel, per James Olley of ESPN. Tuchel revealed that Konsa arrived in camp with discomfort that worsened against Spain before receiving the green light to face Croatia, where he took another blow to the quad. England ultimately opted not to have him play through the pain again.
Analysis: Konsa logged the full 90 minutes against both Spain and Croatia before the quad issue forced England to shut him down, and he will now return to Arsenal for further assessment. Any time on the sidelines would be a significant blow to an already thin center-back group, with Riccardo Calafiori a candidate to partner Gabriel if Konsa is unable to shake off the issue in time for Saturday's clash with Leeds United.
Leaves England squad
Konsa (undisclosed) is ruled out of England's Nations League match against Czechia on Tuesday and has returned to his club for further assessment, according to English national team.
Analysis: Konsa was an unused substitute in last Tuesday's 2-0 win over Czechia after being cleared to play before returning to the starting XI and going the full 90 minutes in Saturday's 7-0 rout of Croatia. The Arsenal defender will undergo further assessment at club level, and any potential absence would be a major blow for the Gunners given their limited healthy options at center-back. Riccardo Calafiori could be an option to slot in alongside Gabriel if Konsa and the other injured defenders remain sidelined for Saturday's clash with Leeds United.
Unused on bench
Konsa (undisclosed) was on the bench but went unused during Tuesday's 2-0 win over Czechia.
Analysis: Konsa wasn't needed during Tuesday's win, as he was left on the bench throughout the match. He was reportedly fit for the match, but may not have been risked or simply may not have been selected. He should be fit moving forward.
Uncertain to face Czech Republic
Konda is dealing with a "minor injury" and will be assessed Tuesday morning to see whether he can play against Czech Republic on Tuesday, James Olley of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Konsa started and went the full 90 in the 3-2 loss to Spain on Saturday, and the center-back will have to pass a late fitness test to determine his availability for Tuesday's game. If the Arsenal center-back isn't available, then Jarrad Branthwaite and Trevoh Chalobah are the other options to provide cover at center-back alongside Marc Guehi.
Three clearances in loss
Konsa recorded one shot (zero on goal) and one chance created in Saturday's 3-0 loss to Brighton.
Analysis: Konsa registered one shot without troubling Bart Verbruggen and made one interception to go with three clearances across 90 minutes as Arsenal's right-sided center-back in a match where Charalampos Kostoulas and Chema repeatedly found space behind the back line throughout. He was part of a defensive unit that conceded three goals for the first time in a Premier League match this season, with none of the goals stemming from individual errors but rather systemic issues in Arsenal's defensive organization. Konsa and Arsenal turn to the international break before returning to action in three weeks.
Keeps starting role
Konsa registered two tackles (zero won), three clearances and two interceptions in Saturday's 2-0 victory over Sunderland.
Analysis: Konsa contributed two tackles, three clearances and two interceptions as Arsenal recorded another clean sheet, though he nearly gave Sunderland an opportunity to take control when he conceded a second-half penalty. David Raya denied Enzo Le Fee from the spot to erase the mistake. Konsa has now started each of Arsenal's last two Premier League matches, strengthening his case for a regular place in the back line.
Impresses in first start
Konsa registered three tackles (two won), six clearances and one interception in Sunday's 2-1 victory against Chelsea.
Analysis: Konsa stepped directly into the back line for his first competitive Arsenal start and produced six clearances alongside two successful tackles. With William Saliba sidelined and Christian Mosquera unavailable Sunday, the summer arrival partnered Gabriel and provided a composed presence in central defense. His experience and ability to defend both aerially and in space could make him an important option while Arsenal manage their current absences.
Ready to make first start
Konsa is training well and is ready to start Monday's Premier League clash against former club Aston Villa, according to coach Mikel Arteta. "Yes he's available. He's trained really well and he will be available for selection."
Analysis: Konsa has trained well since joining Arsenal and is now ready to start, putting him in contention for his first appearance in the XI against his former club Monday. With William Saliba sidelined, the summer signing could partner Gabriel in central defense. A start against Villa would give Konsa an early opportunity to establish himself as a regular in Arsenal's back line.
Completes Arsenal move
Konsa completed a permanent move from Aston Villa to Arsenal on Friday.
Analysis: Konsa's switch to the Emirates Stadium had been on the works for quite some time, and the Gunners have sealed the move just hours before their 2026/27 season debut against Coventry City. Konsa adds another reliable presence at center-back for the Gunners, and he's likely to see regular playing time next to Gabriel Magalhaes while William Saliba (back) is on the sidelines.
Nearing exit
Konsa is close to leaving Aston Villa, according to coach Unai Emery. "I am delighted with everything we did together. Some players are leaving, Konsa is close to leaving, and I am happy for him."
Analysis: Konsa has been strongly linked with a move to Arsenal this summer, and the transfer now appears to be gathering real momentum given manager Unai Emery's comments. His looming departure shifts the focus toward Villa's central defense going forward, with Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres expected to start together at center back in the near future as the club awaits clarity on Konsa's situation.
Out of UEFA Super Cup
Konsa won't play in the 2026 UEFA Super Cup against PSG on Wednesday, according to manager Unai Emery.
Analysis: Konsa is one of three regulars who won't be playing Wednesday for the Midlands club, as Ollie Watkins and Emiliano Martinez will also miss the match due to "completely necessary rest." Konsa was a regular starter for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has had only a few weeks to rest before the season starts. It seems the coaching staff wants to give the star center-back enough time to be healthy for the Premier League opener against Brighton on Sunday, Aug. 23.
Scores goal in victory
Konsa scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) in Saturday's 6-4 victory against France.
Analysis: Konsa headed Declan Rice's corner kick into the net for the second goal of the game in the 18th minute, contributing to an outstanding England first half during the third-place clash. However, there was a shift of momentum in the second half that left the Three Lions' defense with an overwhelming four goals against, limiting Konsa's output to the goal and a few interceptions. He finished the World Cup with 19 clearances, eight interceptions, five tackles and two clean sheets over eight appearances (seven starts), featuring mostly as a center-back and once at right-back.
Active at right-back Saturday
Konsa generated one cross (zero accurate) and one tackle in Saturday's 2-1 win over Norway.
Analysis: Konsa finished with a diverse stat line, highlighting his 100 percent success rate from five individual duels against Norway. His clearances total dropped, partly because he moved to a right-back position in the absence of Jarell Quansah (suspension). While there's a chance that adjustment will be reverted with Reece James now available to play on the flank, the Aston Villa defender will be expected to feature either in a central or wide role in the next round, holding solid all-around upside despite the team's vulnerability against tough opponents.
Mistake leads to goal in 3-2 win
Konsa generated six clearances in Sunday's 3-2 win against Mexico.
Analysis: Konsa played 90 minutes for the fifth game in a row in the World Cup. He made six clearances in this game, which was his most in the tournament so far and also made two blocks. A failed clearance did lead to the first goal as his clearance from the corner fell to Julian Quinines, who finished.
Secures four clearances
Konsa generated one tackle (one won), four clearances and one interception in Saturday's 2-0 victory over Panama.
Analysis: Konsa delivered a stellar performance on Saturday, recording four clearances and an exceptional 99 percent pass accuracy. He is one of the few England players to have played all 90 minutes in each of the three group‑stage matches, finishing the round with a 97 percent overall pass accuracy while winning 14 duels and making five clearances. His consistency and composure at the back have contributed to two clean sheets, reinforcing his importance to England's defensive structure heading into the knockout rounds.
Quiet defensive outing in draw
Konsa had one tackle (one won) and one clearance in Tuesday's 0-0 draw against Ghana.
Analysis: Konsa was barely required to work on defensive duties during a calm game, but he did rack up 116 passes as his side retained ball possession throughout the match. The clean sheet was his first in two World Cup contests so far. He'll likely remain active in upcoming rounds, looking to achieve better tackling and clearance numbers when England face tougher opposition.
Rough opener with England
Konsa recorded two shots and 67 passes completed in Wednesday's 4-2 win over Croatia.
Analysis: Konsa received the start Wednesday and was not at his very best, as his side would concede two goals while he failed to pick up a significant stat on defense. He would complete 67 of his 71 passes, although this does not replace the rough day in defense. England does have plenty of quality center-backs, so there is a chance of rotation throughout the group stage.
Set to start in central defense
Konsa has been named in England's World Cup squad and is expected to form a strong central defensive partnership with Marc Guehi throughout the competition under coach Thomas Tuchel.
Analysis: Konsa ended an impressive season with Aston Villa, having been a consistent and commanding presence at the heart of their defense throughout a campaign that included a Europa League title, bringing the physical dominance, pace and aerial ability that complement Marc Guehi's more technical qualities perfectly. The defender had an extraordinary run of form at international level before this season, having ended on the winning side in 11 consecutive England appearances, the joint longest such run by a defender in Three Lions history. Konsa heads into the World Cup as a trusted and dependable defensive option for manager Tuchel and one of the most experienced figures in a relatively young England back line.
Three interceptions in clean sheet
Konsa had one shot (zero on goal) in Wednesday's 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace.
Analysis: Konsa helped Villa secure their first clean sheet in eight games, leading the team with three interceptions and recording one tackle for a third straight match. He also made four clearances, bringing his total to 20 over his last four games, and registered his first shot attempt after going seven games without one.
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