William Saliba injury persists with Arsenal star set to miss Man City and Chelsea clashes

William Saliba's recovery from a back issue has not progressed and the Arsenal star is now set to miss the title defining clash at Manchester City.

The Gunners have been without the centre-half since he hobbled off with a back injury in the Europa League defeat to Sporting Lisbon last month. They had hoped he would return for the crucial week ahead, but they have seen the necessary steps forward and will now go to the Etihad without him on Wednesday night.

Saliba's problem is also set to keep him out of the game with Chelsea at the Emirates just days later, reports The Athletic. Arsenal have struggled without the Frenchman, who had been an ever present in the Premier League prior to his injury setback, which the Daily Mail reports has seen "structural damage" in his lower back that has also caused concern to one of his lumbar discs