Arsenal say defender William Saliba will be out for an “extended period” after a back injury at the World Cup for France.

The centre-back will not require surgery on an injury which saw him substituted in the 30th minute of France’s semi-final defeat tp Spain, but is likely to miss a significant part of Arsenal’s Premier League title defence.

Saliba was one of the standout performers in the Gunners’ title-winning campaign last season, making 50 appearances in all competitions.

Arsenal kick off their 2026-27 campaign against Manchester City in the Community Shield on Sunday, August 16, before the Gunners begin the Premier League season against Coventry five days later.

An Arsenal statement said: “William Saliba has returned to us from World Cup duty, where he played an integral role in France reaching the semi-finals of the competition. 

“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.

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

“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.”

Saliba injury: Do Arsenal need a new centre-back?

Arsenal already knew they would be without their main centre-back for a period, but news of the length of that absence will almost certainly see them step up their search for a new defender.

Ezri Konsa and unattached John Stones have both been mentioned as potential targets, with a bid of £30million reportedly rejected by Aston Villa for the former.

Villa are likely to demand much more for the England international, which could make Stones a more viable option, albeit questions remain over the former Manchester City man’s fitness.

The 32-year-old played five times for the Three Lions at the World Cup, including every minute of the quarter-final and semi-final, but he started only five times for City in the Premier League last term.