BOSTON — France received a significant fitness boost on Saturday, June 13, 2026, as Arsenal defender William Saliba returned to full group training at the team's World Cup base in Boston.

Easing Injury Concerns

The 25 year-old center-back had been sidelined from team sessions on Thursday and Friday to follow an individualized recovery program. Saliba has been managing persistent back pain that first emerged during the UEFA Champions League final in late May. His absence from the main squad had sparked concerns regarding his availability for France’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, manager Didier Deschamps has consistently downplayed the severity of the injury, and Saliba’s successful return to full training on Saturday suggests he is firmly on track for the tournament opener.

Crucial Role for Les Bleus

Saliba’s fitness is a vital component of France’s defensive strategy. After a standout season that saw him help Arsenal secure the Premier League title, he is expected to partner Dayot Upamecano in the heart of the French defense. Following his 45-minute appearance in France’s 3-1 warm-up victory over Northern Ireland on June 8, his return to the training pitch provides much-needed reassurance for the coaching staff.

France is scheduled to begin their Group I campaign against Senegal on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, followed by group stage fixtures against Iraq and Norway.