UMVA has learned that Arsenal centre-back William Saliba has been struggling with a nagging back issue for several weeks, but manager Didier Deschamps has confirmed that the defender is available to play for France in the upcoming World Cup.
The 25-year-old Saliba has been a key player for Arsenal, featuring in 50 games across all competitions this season, and has accumulated 31 caps for France under Deschamps' guidance since his debut in 2022.
Despite concerns that his injury could jeopardize his World Cup participation, Deschamps has allayed fears, stating that Saliba is being closely monitored by the national team's medical staff and is expected to be fit for the tournament.
Saliba was notably absent from France's 2-1 friendly defeat to Ivory Coast on Thursday, but Deschamps has reassured that all 26 players, including Saliba, will be available for the friendly match against Northern Ireland on Monday.
The French squad is yet to depart for America, where they will begin their World Cup campaign against Senegal on June 16, followed by Group I matches against Iraq and Norway.
This summer's World Cup marks Deschamps' final tournament as France's manager, and his team is determined to make a strong impression, with PSG star Ousmane Dembele expressing his admiration for the coach and vowing to help the team reach the World Cup final.
Saliba has been playing through his back injury, which has been managed by the national team's medical staff, and Deschamps is confident that the defender will be able to perform at his best despite the ongoing issue.
As the French team prepares to take on Northern Ireland in a friendly on Monday, Deschamps is optimistic about the team's chances, with all players, including Saliba, expected to be available for selection.
