Deschamps confirms Saliba fit for France World Cup friendly

Didier Deschamps announced that all 26 players, including Arsenal defender William Saliba, will be available for France's final friendly before the World Cup. He confirmed Ousmane Dembélé will start against Northern Ireland on Monday. The match is the last preparation before France travel to the United States for the tournament opener against Senegal. Deschamps said Saliba's back problem has improved and he is not expected to miss the friendly. He noted the defender has continued to play every game for Arsenal, who are the newly crowned Premier League champions. Saliba is likely to partner Dayot Upamecano in central defence for France. The squad also contains the recent Champions League finalists, reflecting Deschamps' focus on top‑level experience. The update was reported by Léo Aschi.