France coach Didier Deschamps has given an assurance on the fitness of centre-back Williams saliba ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

It is necessary to give such an update with nine days to go before their World Cup opener against Senegal.

Sharing some insights into his players’ fitness levels, the tactician gave particular focus on the finalists from the most recent UEFA Champions League. France had over six players from both teams, thereby getting extra days of rest ahead of others.

The gaffer, who confirmed that the current Ballon d’Or holder, Ousmane Dembélé, would start in their tune-up game against Northern Ireland on Monday evening, went on to confirm that his 26 players will be available for selection, including William Saliba.

This is the final friendly before flying to the United States, making it important to complete his preparation.

The Arsenal defender had been suffering from a back injury. He is now feeling better and is not expected to be kept out of action.

Deschamps confirmed to Téléfoot that the Premier League winner is being looked after by the medical staff, and they are also managing him based on how he feels, but it’s something he’s had for several weeks, and it hasn’t stopped him from playing every game for Arsenal. 

This is a welcome relief for all Les Bleus supporters, who are hoping to see the newly crowned Premier League champion back on the pitch soon, as he is expected to start alongside Dayot Upamecano in France’s central defence.

The pair seem to have formed an understanding after Saliba displaced Ibrahima Konaté from the first team, on the back of the club’s impressive form.

This is a boost and a selection headache for the coach, who has an array of stars to choose from as they hope to create history in the World Cup.