France Receive Injury Boost as Saliba Returns Ahead of Senegal Clash

France have been handed a major boost ahead of their World Cup opener against Senegal with the return of centre back William Saliba to first-team training.

Didier Deschamps’ side enter the tournament as one of the favourites to lift the trophy on July 19, but their preparations had been clouded by concerns over Saliba’s fitness.

The Arsenal defender had missed two consecutive training sessions due to a persistent back issue that troubled him throughout the latter half of the 2025/26 season.

According to journalist Fabrice Hawkins, Saliba resumed full training with the squad, easing fears that he might miss the crucial opener.

The 25-year-old had featured for 45 minutes in France’s 3-1 friendly win over Northern Ireland before being replaced at half-time by Maxence Lacroix.

France will be keen to avoid a repeat of their infamous 1-0 defeat to Senegal in the opening match of the 2002 World Cup, and Saliba’s return provides a timely reinforcement to their defensive line.