France's Saliba to skip Friday's training ahead of FIFA WC opener as recovery from back pain continues
New Jersey, June 13
France defender William Saliba will not be participating in the team's training ahead of the FIFA World Cup opener on Friday and will be following an individual programme for recovery from back pain, announced the French Football Federation.
Saliba has experienced back pains in recent weeks, following a long, exhausting season with Arsenal, which saw the Gunners finally capture the Premier League title in 22 years, but end as runners-up to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the UEFA Champions League final.
France coach Didier Deschamps had said recently that he would be fit in time for the World Cup.
A statement from FFF, as quoted by Reuters, said, "William Saliba will not take part in the day's team training. Theo Hernandez is also rested as a precaution, as is Aurelien Tchouameni."
France is scheduled to start their Group I campaign against Senegal on June 16, followed by matches against Iraq and Norway.
France's FIFA World Cup squad:
-Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan, Robin Risser, Brice Samba.
-Defenders: Lucas Digne, Malo Gusto, Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konate, Jules Kounde, Maxence Lacroix, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano.
-Midfielders: N'Golo Kante, Manu Kone, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Warren Zaire-Emery.
-Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche, Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Marcus Thuram.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a football fan in India, I'm really hoping Saliba gets fit. France's group looks manageable—Senegal will be tough but winnable. But without a fully fit defence, even Norway could spring a surprise. Take your time, William!
In India, we know all about managing injuries before big tournaments. Our cricketers face similar issues. Saliba should rest now rather than risk a long-term problem. France are favourites but without a fully fit squad, even the best can stumble. Smart move by Deschamps. 👍
Arsenal fan here in India, and Saliba was instrumental in their title win. Back pain is no joke—remember how many careers have been derailed by it. Hope he recovers fully. France's squad is still stacked: Mbappe, Dembele, Kante... they'll be fine. But Saliba's presence gives them that extra solidity.
Honestly, it's a bit worrying for France that their key players are getting injured even before the first match. First Saliba, now Tchouameni and Hernandez also rested as precaution. 🙁 Group I isn't a walkover either—Senegal always plays with passion. Hope the medical team works its magic.
From a neutral's perspective in India, this could make France's group stage more interesting. They still have huge talent, but without a settled defence, we might see some upsets. Would love to see Norway cause a shock—Haaland vs France defense? That's box office!
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