William Saliba uncertain for Senegal-France match in two weeks

Saliba, a key defender for the French team, suffered a relapse during the Champions League final, which could disrupt coach Didier Deschamps' plans. According to Foot Mercato, the Arsenal defender's injury, which he was already managing, worsened on Saturday evening. His presence for the World Cup's opening match against Senegal is now highly doubtful.

Saliba is an undisputed starter in France's defense, and his potential absence means he will likely need to be replaced, possibly alongside Dayot Upamecano, the other regular starter. Ibrahima Konaté, who recently concluded his time at Liverpool, is the most logical choice to take his place in the starting lineup. Other central defenders like Lucas Hernandez, who has not played much with Paris Saint-Germain, and Jules Koundé, who is now firmly established at right-back, offer fewer guarantees.

Maxence Lacroix, a surprise inclusion in the squad, lacks sufficient experience with the national team to be considered ahead of Konaté. This injury announcement comes on June 1, the deadline for Didier Deschamps to submit his squad list to FIFA. While he can add or remove a name, regulations also permit a coach to call up another player in the event of a serious injury up to 24 hours before the team's first match.

For France, this match is on June 16 against Senegal, giving Deschamps until