Arsenal defender William Saliba avoids surgery on severe back injury
Arsenal have confirmed that defender William Saliba will not require surgery on a back injury sustained during the World Cup, though he faces an extended period of rehabilitation.
The French centre-back limped out of his country’s semi-final defeat to Spain.
Initial reports suggested the defensive standout might face an operation and several months on the sidelines.
Rehabilitation over surgery for key defender
A club statement revealed that extensive specialist reviews in London concluded an operation was unnecessary.
However, the Premier League champions admitted their star defender will still miss a significant portion of the upcoming domestic campaign.
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.
The North London club added that medical staff are fully focused on supporting his return to full fitness as swiftly as possible.
Playing through the pain barrier
France manager Didier Deschamps revealed after the tournament exit that his player’s pain had become unbearable.
The towering defender had reportedly been managing the underlying physical issue since March.
Speaking before the international tournament, the French international admitted he had been pushing his body to the limit.
I’ve been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League.
I’m not at 100 percent, but there are plenty of players who aren’t at 100 per cent either.
William Saliba
A blow to Arsenal’s title defence
The absence of their defensive talisman is a major setback for the reigning English champions.
The injured star formed Europe’s most formidable central defensive partnership alongside Gabriel last season.
Their resolute performances formed the bedrock of a historic campaign that ended a 22-year wait for a top-flight crown.
The Gunners face a demanding start to their title defence, with early trips to Aston Villa and Liverpool.
They must also navigate a crucial London derby against Chelsea within their opening ten domestic fixtures.