Key Takeaways:
- William Saliba returned to France training on Sunday following his absence on Thursday and Friday
- The Arsenal centre-back continues to manage a back issue, with possible surgery being considered after the tournament
- All 26 members of the French squad participated in Sunday’s session ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup opener against Senegal
Saliba’s Fitness Boosts France Ahead of World Cup Start
William Saliba made his return to training with the French national team on Sunday, just two days prior to Les Bleus’ FIFA World Cup opener against Senegal. The 25-year-old Arsenal defender had been absent from the training sessions held on Thursday and Friday as he struggled with a back problem. Concerns initially arose regarding whether the injury could jeopardise his participation in the tournament, but these fears have since been eased by Didier Deschamps and the team’s medical staff, who have played down the severity of the issue.
🚨🇫🇷 Excellent news for France and Didier Deschamps: William Saliba returns to team training.
Arsenal defender feels better, @FabriceHawkins reports. pic.twitter.com/yynxifglCZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 13, 2026
Injury Management and Prospects
Although Saliba is back on the pitch, he continues to manage his ongoing back discomfort, an issue for which surgery may be required following the conclusion of the World Cup. Before the French squad travelled to the United States, there had been apprehension about the possible impact on Saliba’s availability, but the latest updates seem more optimistic.
Full Squad Returns to the Training Ground
The French squad conducted their latest training session in Boston, where, according to L’Équipe, all 26 players participated on Sunday. This included Saliba, who joined his teammates for the first time since arriving in the US. With only one training session remaining before Tuesday’s crucial fixture against Senegal, Saliba’s return has arrived at a pivotal moment for France’s preparations.
