Arsenal's hopes of retaining the Premier League title have suffered a significant setback after William Saliba was ruled out for an 'extended period' with a back injury. The 25-year-old centre-back, a cornerstone of the champions' defence last season, was forced off after just 30 minutes of France's World Cup semi-final defeat by Spain.
Saliba had been playing through pain for months. 'I've had some minor niggles for several months,' he admitted earlier in the tournament. '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 confirm William Saliba out for extended period; no surgery needed for back injury suffered in World Cup semi-final.”
Arsenal confirmed on Wednesday that the problem does not require surgery. 'Subsequent specialist reviews on William's return to London this week have confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation,' the club said in a statement. 'Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now commence a managed recovery programme.'
The club added: 'William's rehabilitation will commence immediately, with continual management of his injury, and he is expected to be out of action for an extended period. Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.'
The injury compounds a busy summer for Arsenal, who have already signed Christos Tzolis for £34m as they prepare for life without the France international. The defender's absence places extra pressure on a squad that relied heavily on his partnership with Gabriel Magalhães during last season's title run, when David Raya won the Golden Glove with 19 clean sheets and Declan Rice emerged as the heartbeat of the team.
Saliba's rehabilitation will be closely monitored, but Arsenal must now show greater efficiency in the transfer window to cover for one of the league's most influential defenders.
