Arsenal, the reigning English Premier League champions, have suffered a major blow after it was confirmed that French defender William Saliba will be out for a long period due to a back injury.

The 25-year-old defender played through a back problem during France's run to the World Cup semi-finals, and although he will not require surgery, he will be sidelined for a long time.

Arsenal said in a statement: 'Medical scans following William's return to London this week confirmed that he has a back injury which requires a period of rehabilitation, with no need for surgery.'

The statement added: 'William's rehabilitation process begins immediately and he is expected to be out for a long period.'

Saliba had been dealing with the same issue throughout Arsenal's Premier League title-winning campaign last season and was determined to continue with his national team at the World Cup, but he did not play in the third-place match after the loss to Spain in the semi-finals.

Advertisement

Advertisement