Arsenal defender William Saliba is facing an extended period on the sidelines due to a back injury sustained during the World Cup with France. The club confirmed that surgery is not required and a managed recovery program will commence.
Saliba had been managing a back issue for several weeks leading up to the tournament but was forced off in the 30th minute of France's semi-final match against Spain. He was subsequently unable to participate in France's third-place playoff.
Speaking earlier in the World Cup, Saliba acknowledged the recurring nature of the problem. "I've had some minor niggles for several months," he stated. "I've been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League. The World Cup comes round only once every four years, so you've got to grit your teeth."
Saliba was a consistent presence for Arsenal last season, appearing in 50 matches across all competitions. The team is preparing for the Community Shield match against Manchester City on August 16, followed by the start of their Premier League title defense against Coventry City five days later.