Arsenal defender William Saliba is expected to continue playing for France at the World Cup despite an ongoing back problem, with Les Bleus carefully managing his workload during the tournament.
Questions over Saliba’s fitness have followed Didier Deschamps’ squad throughout the competition after the centre-back entered the tournament carrying a back issue that had already required careful monitoring.
France assistant coach Guy Stephan has now provided the latest update, insisting there is no immediate cause for alarm despite the need for extra caution.
“William is doing well,” Stéphan said. “We will obviously have to be careful until the end, manage him carefully during certain training sessions, but there doesn’t seem to be any immediate concern.”
The comments will come as encouraging news for Arsenal, who are closely monitoring the fitness of one of Mikel Arteta’s most important players ahead of the new Premier League season.
Saliba has developed into one of the world’s leading central defenders since establishing himself as a regular at Arsenal in 2022.
The France international played a crucial role as Arsenal ended their 22-year wait for the Premier League title last season, once again forming an outstanding partnership alongside Gabriel Magalhaes at the heart of Arteta’s defence.
However, concerns over his fitness surfaced before the World Cup after reports in France suggested he had been dealing with a persistent back complaint for several months.
Saliba himself previously admitted he was not fully fit but was determined to continue representing both club and country while managing the discomfort.
France’s medical staff have subsequently adjusted his training programme, reducing his workload between matches to minimise the risk of aggravating the injury.
That approach appears to be continuing as Les Bleus progress through the knockout stages.
For Arsenal, the situation will remain a delicate balancing act.
The club will naturally want Saliba available for the start of the new domestic campaign, but the defender is equally determined to help France challenge for another World Cup.
Arteta has already seen several key players heavily involved during the summer tournament, including Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice with England, while Martin Odegaard has captained Norway.
Saliba’s situation may require the closest attention of all.
Although France are optimistic the injury can be managed without forcing him out of the tournament, every additional match increases the physical demands on a player already carrying a lingering back problem.
For now, though, the latest update suggests Saliba remains available, with France confident careful management will allow the Arsenal defender to continue playing as they chase World Cup glory.