Arsenal defender Saliba out for extended period, says club

Arsenal defender William Saliba faces an extended period on the sidelines after sustaining a back injury during the World Cup. The Premier League club confirmed the setback on Wednesday.

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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.

Saliba battled the injury throughout the tournament in the United States. It limited his training sessions and ultimately led to his substitution after just 30 minutes of France's semi-final defeat to Spain. He subsequently missed the third-place playoff match against England.

"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," Arsenal stated. The club added that extensive assessments determined surgery is not recommended. Saliba will now commence a managed recovery program.

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Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now commence a managed recovery programme.

"Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible," the statement concluded. Arsenal is preparing to defend its Premier League title, beginning at home against Coventry City on August 21.

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Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.