Sources: Saliba fit for France World Cup bid
· 2 min read
The Return
William Saliba has been officially included in France's 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, marking a crucial return after withdrawing due to a left ankle injury sustained during Arsenal's EFL Cup final against Manchester City in March 2026. Despite concerns about his fitness, particularly a chronic back issue that worsened after the UEFA Champions League final, Saliba's presence is seen as vital for France's defensive strategy. His recovery and inclusion are pivotal as the team prepares for their opening match against Senegal on June 16.
Why It Matters
Saliba's return is particularly significant given the absences of key players like Eduardo Camavinga, Randal Kolo Muani, and Hugo Ekitike, who is out for the season due to an Achilles injury. With these gaps in the squad, Saliba's fitness becomes even more critical for France's ambitions in the tournament. The depth provided by his inclusion, alongside Maxence Lacroix as a replacement for the injured players, enhances France's chances of advancing from a challenging group that includes Iraq and Norway.
Tactical Boost
Saliba's inclusion allows Didier Deschamps to adopt a flexible 4-2-3-1 formation, utilizing him as a right-sided center-back alongside Lucas Hernandez. This pairing not only strengthens France's defensive stability but also enhances their ball progression capabilities, thanks to Saliba's composure and passing range. His pace and tactical awareness enable a high-pressing strategy, crucial for quick transitions and recovery during matches, thereby bolstering France's overall tactical approach as they aim to reclaim the World Cup title.
What Comes Next
As France gears up for their World Cup campaign, the focus will be on Saliba's fitness and performance in the lead-up to their opening match against Senegal. The team's success will heavily depend on his ability to manage his chronic back issue while maintaining peak performance levels. With the tournament starting on June 11, all eyes will be on Saliba to see if he can deliver the defensive solidity and tactical flexibility that France needs to navigate a challenging group stage and advance deep into the tournament.