Overview
- Saliba played 45 minutes as a second‑half substitute in France’s final friendly against Northern Ireland on Monday, a planned move intended to limit his load.
- Manager Didier Deschamps said France’s medical staff are looking after Saliba and will manage his involvement based on how he feels, keeping him in the squad rather than withdrawing him.
- Scans and treatment were carried out after he reported discomfort following the Champions League final, and French reports noted visible grimacing in training that underlines ongoing pain.
- Arsenal will decide after the World Cup whether to pursue surgery for the chronic back problem, according to L’Équipe via other outlets.
- FIFA allows squad replacements for serious injury up to 24 hours before a team’s opening match, so France can still make a late change if Saliba’s condition worsens and FIFA approves.