AI Summary
Concerns over William Saliba’s fitness have emerged, putting his place in France’s 2026 World Cup squad at risk and forcing a defensive rethink for Didier Deschamps.
- •ESPN reports that William Saliba is currently considered doubtful for the upcoming 2026 World Cup squad.
- •The defender’s recent fitness status complicates Didier Deschamps’ planning for France’s defensive rotation.
- •It remains unclear if Saliba will undergo surgery or attempt a conservative recovery path to return before the tournament begins.
Arsenal defender William Saliba is reportedly facing significant fitness doubts that may exclude him from France's 2026 World Cup squad. The center-back has been a staple in the French backline, and his absence forces a major recalibration for manager Didier Deschamps, according to reports from ESPN. It is not yet confirmed how long the recovery process will take or if he will be match-fit by the start of the competition. If Saliba is ruled out, France will need to rely on depth options that have yet to be tested at this level of international play.
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