William Saliba ruled out of FIFA World Cup 2026? Latest injury update on French defender

William Saliba is at risk of missing the World Cup due to a late injury scare.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set for its grand inauguration, with the first match of the tournament set to kick off on June 12.

The newest edition is set to be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada. It will feature a record 48 teams for the first time, providing a platform for nations striving to make a mark on the international stage.

France national football team, widely regarded as the tournament favourites, will be aiming to secure the title. The nation is arriving with huge expectations, after making successive World Cup finals under manager Didier Deschamps, winning the 2018 edition before losing to Argentina in 2022 on penalties.

France is placed in Group I, dubbed as one of the most competitive groups of the edition. They are competing alongside Senegal, Norway and Iraq. Senegal qualified after topping their CAF qualification group. Norway secured their spot in the World Cup after 28 years in a flawless UEFA qualifiers, winning all eight games. Iraq defeated Bolivia in the Intercontinental playoff final 2-1 to become the 48th team to qualify for the World Cup.

William Saliba could be sidelined for several weeks

Just weeks before the tournament commencement, the France national team is in a state of panic after unfavourable injury reports of defender William Saliba. Widely regarded for his ability in recent years, Saliba has been instrumental for club and country.

William Saliba was one of the vital pieces in Arsenal’s Premier League title win and UEFA Champions League final run. Saliba played the fifth-most minutes for the side this season, featuring in 48 of the side’s 63 matches.

The player was reportedly suffering from an ankle injury during the pre-season friendlies. William Saliba recovered from the injury; however, he had issues with the same ankle during March 2026, forcing him to rest before returning to the pitch. The Frenchman missed the final game of the Premier League season to prepare for the Champions League final.

Despite not being in full fitness, he played the full 120 minutes in the final, leading to his injury worsening. He is set to miss friendlies against the Ivory Coast and Northern Ireland, due to the injury being aggravated, while his involvement in France’s World Cup campaign remains in major doubt.

France are set to play their first group stage against Senegal on June 17 at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.

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