Injury rules Saliba out for Arsenal

The 25-year-old defender, who suffered from a back problem throughout France’s run to the World Cup semi-finals, will be sidelined for an extended period despite not requiring surgery.

Arsenal stated in a press release: “Medical examinations conducted after William returned to London this week confirmed a back injury that requires a period of rehabilitation, with no need for surgical intervention.”

The club added: “William’s rehabilitation process begins immediately, and he is expected to be out of action for a long time.” Saliba endured the same issue throughout Arsenal’s title-winning campaign in the Premier League last season. He insisted on continuing with his national team at the World Cup but did not feature in the third-place playoff after the loss to Spain in the semi-finals.