L’Equipe reports that France will closely monitor William Saliba’s fitness in the coming days after the Arsenal defender played the closing weeks of the season with a back problem.
It’s unclear exactly when the 25-year-old sustained the issue, although the French newspaper notes he required treatment during extra time of Saturday’s Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain when the pain flared up.
While ESPN claimed yesterday that Saliba is a doubt for the World Cup, L’Equipe suggests his “case will be managed with caution” and that a withdrawal is not currently being considered.
Saliba featured in 50 of Arsenal’s 63 matches in all competitions this season and was a cornerstone of the side that ended the club’s 22-year wait for a Premier League title.
After taking part in Arsenal’s title celebrations, the centre-back is due to report to Clairefontaine today.
France start their World Cup campaign on 16 June against Senegal. They then face Iraq on 22 June before wrapping up the group stage against Norway four days later.