France coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed that Laurent Koscielny will miss the World Cup in Russia this summer.

The Arsenal defender suffered an Achilles tendon injury early in last night’s 1-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Europa League, and the injury will see him sidelined for the summer tournament.

Speaking to local media, the France manager said, “It’s a very big blow for the French team.

“An injury never comes at the right time. I am really very sad for Laurent because this World Cup was also a very important moment for him in his career.

“I wish him strength and a good return to the field, because I’m sure he still has some great things to show.”

Given the potential seriousness of this injury, and the face Koscielny will be 33 in September, it remains to be seen just how much of a contribution he will be able to make next season.

Arsenal need to bolster their central defensive ranks anyway, and this may press them into some interesting decisions this summer.