William Saliba Set for Extended Spell Out as Arsenal Confirm No Surgery Needed

Arsenal have confirmed that defender William Saliba will be sidelined for an extended period after medical assessments determined that surgery is not required for his injury.

The club revealed that specialists concluded an operation was not the best course of action, with Saliba instead beginning a carefully managed rehabilitation programme immediately. While the decision avoids surgery, the France international is still expected to spend a significant amount of time on the sidelines.

In an official statement, Arsenal said: "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's absence is a major setback for Mikel Arteta, with the 25-year-old regarded as one of the Premier League's most reliable central defenders. His leadership, composure, and defensive quality have made him a key figure in Arsenal's back line.

The Gunners will now have to rely on the depth of their defensive options as they prepare for a demanding run of fixtures without one of their most influential players.

Although no timeline has been given for Saliba's return, Arsenal will hope the rehabilitation programme allows him to make a full recovery without the need for surgery.