2026 World Cup: Saliba Reveals Injury Struggle Ahead Of France-Iraq Clash

France defender, William Saliba, has revealed he is playing through persistent back pain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting he is not fully fit but remains determined to help Les Bleus in their quest for glory.

The Arsenal centre-back disclosed that he has been managing the issue for months, dating back to the latter stages of the Premier League and UEFA Champions League campaigns. Despite the discomfort, Saliba said missing the World Cup was never an option as France prepares for their Group I encounter with Iraq.

“I’ve had some minor niggles for several months. I’ve been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League. But the coaching staff are handling it very well,” Saliba said at a press conference ahead of his country’s upcoming Group I match against Iraq.

“The World Cup comes round only once every four years, so you’ve got to grit your teeth.”

The 25-year-old said France’s medical and coaching staff have carefully managed his workload since the tournament began, allowing him to continue playing while monitoring the injury.

“I’m not at 100 per cent, but there are plenty of players who aren’t at 100 per cent either – you can’t make excuses,” he added.

Away from his own fitness concerns, Saliba also spoke glowingly about teammate Michael Olise, whose performances have attracted growing praise during the tournament. However, he cautioned against comparing the winger too quickly with French greats such as Zinedine Zidane and Michel Platini.

“He’s a star, but he has a lot to accomplish before he can be compared to Zidane or Platini,” the Arsenal defender said of his international teammate.

Saliba nevertheless believes Olise possesses all the qualities needed to become one of the game’s elite talents.

“He can do everything on the pitch,” Saliba said. “I hope he becomes a player like that. He’s world-class; he can dribble, he shoots, and when he needs to shoot, he shoots. When he dribbles, he dribbles, he’s a joy to watch.”