William Saliba has missed another France training session ahead of their World Cup semi-final against Spain, as he continues to follow a modified training schedule.
Didier Deschamps, Head Coach of France, celebrates with William Saliba #17 after the 2-0 victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between France and Morocco at Boston Stadium on July 09, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images
L’Equipe report that William Saliba was absent from France’s training session on Saturday, the latest in a number of training absences for the Arsenal man during this World Cup tournament.
L’Equipe claim Saliba has been following a modified training programme throughout the World Cup so far, in an attempt to manage his back pain.
Given the centre-backs previous training absences didn’t stop him from starting and completing 90 minutes in five of France’s six games so far, it’s expected that he’ll be available for the semi-final against Spain on Tuesday.
Ismaila Sarr #18 of Senegal is challenged by William Saliba #17 of France during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Senegal
Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
You’d hope that if France fail to progress to the final, Didier Deschamps would be sensible enough to give Saliba a break for the third-place play-off this weekend.
But if France do beat Spain, it seems unlikely that either the player or his coach will be willing to use the World Cup final as a rest day.
William Saliba #17 of France heads the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Senegal at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 16, 2026
Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images
Saliba previously missed around three months of football in 2022/23 with a back problem, his longest absence since joining Arsenal.
The defender made 50 appearances as Arsenal won the Premier League and reached the finals of the Champions League and League Cup this season, and the Gunners have often run into difficulties without him.
Fans will now be sweating on Saliba’s continuing involvement at the World Cup and the outcome of his reported potential post-season operation.
William Saliba of Arsenal kisses the Premier League trophy, as Arsenal are crowned the Champions of the Premier League for the 2025/26 Season, after the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal at Selhurst Park on May 24, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images For Premier League)
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images For Premier League
Arsenal World Cup star absent from training again
William Saliba has missed another France training session ahead of their World Cup semi-final against Spain, as he continues to follow a modified training schedule.
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