Arsenal centre-back William Saliba was forced off with a back injury during the first half of France’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain on Tuesday night. Saliba, who has been managing the back problem for several months, went down unchallenged during the 29th minute. After speaking to France’s medical staff, he left the pitch and was replaced by Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. According to reports in France, Saliba was heard saying ‘my back has gone’ after pulling up with the injury.
Impact on France’s Defeat
France were already behind by half time after Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty put Spain ahead in the 22nd minute. Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s lead in the 58th minute, and Spain will now face either England or Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday. When asked about replacing Saliba with Lacroix instead of Ibrahima Konate, France manager Didier Deschamps said: ‘It’s a matter of choice. Unfortunately, Ibou hasn’t reached his best level. There’s also the question of positioning, he plays on the right at Liverpool, while Maxence can play on the left. He’s also had more playing time since the beginning. I was following my own logic, it might not be yours but it’s mine.’
Saliba’s Ongoing Back Issue
Three weeks ago, Saliba was ruled out of France’s final World Cup group game against Norway due to his back injury. Speaking last month, he revealed that he has been playing with the problem before the World Cup. ‘I’ve had some minor discomfort for several months,’ Saliba said. ‘I gritted my teeth because of the Champions League and the Premier League. But the staff are managing it very well. The World Cup only comes around every four years, so you have to grit your teeth. I’m not at 100 per cent but there are plenty of players who aren’t at 100 per cent either, there’s no point in making excuses.’
What’s Next for France and Saliba
France’s World Cup campaign ends in the semi-finals. Saliba’s injury will be assessed by Arsenal’s medical staff ahead of the new season. The defender’s absence was a significant blow for Les Bleus, who struggled to contain Spain’s attack after his departure.
