Arsenal have confirmed that defender William Saliba will be sidelined for an extended period after suffering a back injury during the 2026 FIFA World Cup with France.
The Premier League champions announced on Wednesday that specialist assessments conducted after Saliba returned to London confirmed the extent of the injury, which will require a rehabilitation program.
The French international struggled with the issue throughout the World Cup in the United States, limiting his participation in training sessions. He was forced off after just 30 minutes during France's semi-final defeat to Spain and was unavailable for the third-place playoff loss against England.
In an official statement, Arsenal said: "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 added that surgery will not be necessary after extensive medical assessments.
"Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now commence a managed recovery programme," Arsenal stated.
"Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible."
Arsenal did not provide a timeline for Saliba's return, leaving uncertainty over how many matches the France international will miss.
The Gunners are scheduled to begin the defense of their Premier League title at home against newly promoted Coventry City on August 21.
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