Arsenal, the English Premier League champions, announced on Wednesday that French international defender William Saliba will be sidelined for a long period, after suffering a back injury during the World Cup.

Saliba suffered from this injury throughout the tournament held in North America, which limited his ability to train, before being substituted after 30 minutes of France's defeat to Spain in the semi-final, and missed the loss to England in the third-place match.

Arsenal said in a statement: 'Subsequent specialist scans that William underwent after his return to London confirmed that he has a back injury that will require a period of rehabilitation. Comprehensive assessments concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William must now begin a regular recovery program. Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he regains full fitness as soon as possible.'

Arsenal begin the defense of their Premier League title at home to newly promoted Coventry City on August 21.

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