Specialist reviews have ruled out surgery, with the France defender beginning a managed rehabilitation programme in London.
William Saliba faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after Arsenal confirmed the defender has picked up a back injury.
The 25-year-old made his way back to London after helping France reach the World Cup semi-finals, and has since been through a series of specialist checks and assessments.
Arsenal have confirmed in an official update that surgery is off the table for now. Instead, Saliba will start a managed recovery programme straight away, with the club keeping a close eye on his progress.
“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 Gunners announced in the statement.
“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.”
Saliba was a key figure as France made it to the last four at the World Cup, with Didier Deschamps’ side boasting one of the tournament’s tightest defences.
He lasted just half an hour in the semi-final defeat to Spain, going down off the ball and signalling he couldn’t carry on. The injury also ruled him out of France’s third-place play-off with England.
The timing is far from ideal for Arsenal, with the new season opener against Manchester City in the Community Shield now less than a month away.
Arteta’s side are set to meet City at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Sunday 16 August, before kicking off their Premier League title defence. With Arsenal calling Saliba’s absence 'extended', his chances of featuring look slim.
After a gruelling season for both club and country, Arsenal will be taking no chances with his recovery.
Saliba was ever-present at the heart of Arsenal’s defence last season, before heading off to North America with France. Their deep World Cup run meant his campaign stretched well into July.
He signed a new long-term deal with Arsenal last September, already having 140 appearances to his name. His partnership with Gabriel Magalhães has become one of the cornerstones of Arteta’s side.
Arsenal haven’t put a date on his comeback, and the choice to avoid surgery doesn’t mean they’ll rush him back.
The Gunner's priority is to support Saliba through his rehab and make sure he’s fully fit before he returns.