ไทย
English
中國人
France returns to the pitch on Friday in a group-deciding showdown against Norway, but the 2026 World Cup frontrunner will need to overcome its European opponent without center back William Saliba.
The Arsenal defender is the cornerstone of Didier Deschamps' squad. France possesses an embarrassment of riches, featuring the most formidable attack at the World Cup, but the defensive line is anchored by Saliba, widely regarded as one of the finest center backs in the game.
Saliba has played every single minute of France's World Cup run thus far, helping Les Bleus secure back-to-back victories over Senegal and Iraq.
However, L'Equipe reports that the 25-year-old will be absent from the crucial group stage decider against Norway, dealing a significant blow to France's hopes of finishing top of the group.
What Injury Does William Saliba Have?
Saliba has been managing a back problem for quite some time, pushing through the discomfort both for Arsenal during the final stretch of the season and for France this summer.
"I've had some minor niggles for several months," Saliba said ahead of the match against Iraq, via ESPN. "I've been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League. But the coaching staff are handling it very well.
"The World Cup comes round only once every four years, so you've got to grit your teeth. I'm not at 100%, but there are plenty of players who aren't at 100% either. You can't make excuses."
Saliba sat out France's final training session before their clash with Norway, and Les Bleus' approach is to take every precaution to avoid aggravating the problem, which could potentially jeopardize his availability for the knockout stages.
When Will Saliba Return From Injury?
With France already through to the round of 32, Saliba's omission from the Norway fixture is largely a precautionary measure. Les Bleus' medical team want to allow Saliba additional time to rest and recuperate before the business end of France's World Cup journey gets underway.
According to L'Equipe, Crystal Palace center back Maxence Lacroix is set to fill in for Saliba in the starting lineup against Norway, most likely alongside Dayot Upamecano at the center of defense.
SI answers is our AI answer engine trained on human-created content.
Newly-signed Real Madrid center back Ibrahima Konaté represents another option Deschamps could consider. Jules Koundé also has experience operating in central defense, though he has largely transitioned into a right back role, and he too is expected to be rested on Friday.
Deschamps' men still possess more than enough quality to defeat Norway and secure top spot in the group, but Saliba will be absolutely vital if France is to achieve three consecutive World Cup final appearances.