William Saliba's formidable partnership with Gabriel was a key reason Arsenal won the Premier League last season. Arsenal have confirmed that the defender is set to miss an "extended period" after suffering a back injury while at the World Cup with France.
The 25-year-old had been managing a back issue for several weeks and carried the problem into the World Cup, but was forced off after 30 minutes of France's semi-final loss to Spain.
After returning to London and being seen by a specialist, it was decided that surgery is not needed and that a managed recovery programme will be started instead. Saliba was also forced to sit out France's World Cup bronze final defeat by England.
What did Saliba say about the injury?
Earlier in the World Cup, Saliba said he had been dealing with the problem for some time.
I've had some minor niggles for several months.He added:
I've been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League.He continued:
The World Cup comes round only once every four years, so you've got to grit your teeth.
How important was Saliba to Arsenal last season?
Saliba made 50 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal last season, as Mikel Arteta's side ended a 22-year wait to win the Premier League and also reached the Champions League final.
When are Arsenal's next key matches?
Arsenal will take on Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday, 16 August, five days before the Gunners begin the defence of the Premier League title by hosting promoted Coventry City.
Key Facts
- Arsenal say William Saliba will miss an "extended period" with a back injury.
- The 25-year-old was injured while at the World Cup with France and was forced off after 30 minutes against Spain.
- Specialist advice ruled out surgery, with a managed recovery programme to begin instead.
- Saliba made 50 appearances in all competitions last season.
- Arsenal play Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday, 16 August.
