Arsenal have been dealt a major setback ahead of the new season after confirming defender William Saliba will be sidelined for an extended period with a back injury.
The France international sustained the injury during the FIFA World Cup and will now begin a rehabilitation programme after medical specialists ruled out the need for surgery.
Saliba suffered injury at World Cup
Saliba had been managing a back problem for several weeks before the tournament but continued to play for both Arsenal and France.
The 25-year-old was forced off after just 30 minutes of France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain and subsequently missed the third-place play-off against England.
After returning to London for further assessment, Arsenal confirmed surgery would not be required, with the defender instead set to undergo a managed recovery programme.
Ben Jacobs@JacobsBen"Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not
Speaking earlier during the World Cup, Saliba admitted he had been playing through discomfort.
"I've had some minor niggles for several months," he said.
"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."
Arsenal face defensive challenge
Saliba was one of Arsenal's standout performers last season, making 50 appearances in all competitions as the Gunners ended their 22-year wait for the Premier League title and reached the UEFA Champions League final.
His absence will be a significant blow for Mikel Arteta, who is preparing his side for the start of the new campaign.
Arsenal begin the season against Manchester City in the Community Shield on 16 August before launching the defence of their Premier League crown at home to newly promoted Coventry City five days later.
