In a crushing blow to France's Olympic ambitions, Arsenal defensive stalwart William Saliba has been officially excluded from Thierry Henry's final squad for the Paris 2024 Games. The decision comes despite intense speculation that the Gunners' centre-back would be among the three overage players permitted in the Under-23 tournament.
France manager Thierry Henry confirmed his 25-man preliminary roster on Monday, with Saliba's absence standing out as the most significant omission. The 23-year-old defender, who enjoyed an outstanding Premier League campaign with Arsenal, was widely expected to bolster France's backline as they chase gold on home soil.
Olise Makes the Cut Amidst Saliba Snub
While Saliba received disappointing news, Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise secured his place in Henry's squad. The exciting young attacker, who recently completed a high-profile move to Bayern Munich, will provide France with creative spark and goal threat throughout the tournament.
The Olympic football competition primarily features players under 23 years old, but each nation can include three senior players beyond that age limit. Henry's decision to overlook Saliba suggests he has alternative defensive plans, potentially prioritising other areas of his squad.
Club vs Country Tensions Surface
Saliba's exclusion may come as relief to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who would have been concerned about his key defender facing a demanding tournament schedule before the new Premier League season. The Olympic football competition runs from July 24 to August 9, potentially disrupting pre-season preparations.
Nevertheless, Saliba's absence represents a significant setback for France's gold medal aspirations. The defender established himself as one of Europe's finest centre-backs last season, forming part of a formidable Arsenal defence that conceded the fewest goals in the Premier League.
What's Next for Saliba and France?
While Saliba will miss the Olympic spectacle, he remains a crucial component of Didier Deschamps' senior French squad for upcoming European Championship qualifiers. His focus will now shift to Arsenal's pre-season preparations as the Gunners look to mount another title challenge.
For France's Olympic team, the search for defensive solidity continues without their first-choice candidate. Thierry Henry must now identify alternative defensive arrangements as France prepares to face the United States, Guinea and New Zealand in the group stage of what promises to be a captivating tournament.
