Overview
- Reports say William Saliba aggravated a pre-existing injury after playing the full 120 minutes in Saturday’s Champions League final loss to PSG, leaving his World Cup participation uncertain.
- French outlet Foot Mercato and multiple media outlets report the defender could be sidelined for several weeks, though no club or player medical statement has confirmed a diagnosis or timeline.
- Saliba is expected to undergo further tests on Monday to assess the problem and inform whether he can join France for their June 16 World Cup opener against Senegal.
- If Saliba is ruled out, Didier Deschamps has ready alternatives such as Ibrahima Konate, Maxence Lacroix, Lucas Hernandez, or Jules Kounde who could fill the centre-back role.
- Saliba’s possible absence would affect both France’s defensive plans and Arsenal’s short-term preparations after his key role in their 2025–26 season, and it could force last-minute squad changes for Les Bleus.