Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been dealt a mega blow to his title ambitions.

The Gunners coach is battling the loss of points in recent Premier League games to Liverpool and West Ham United.

Having been without French defender William Saliba for many weeks, the Gunners could now lose him for even longer.

Arteta states that Saliba could be out for the rest of the season with a back problem.

"We still have to wait a bit more," said Arteta this week.

"He's not progressing as quick as we hoped. It's a bit delicate. We want to be sure when we push him.

He added: "I don't know. It's a bit early to do [rule out for season].

“There is some evolution. He's doing more activity but he's not ready yet to throw him in to that pitch."