William Saliba Misses France Training Ahead of World Cup Semifinal vs Spain

**William Saliba missed France’s World Cup training session on Saturday, July 12, as the team prepares for its semifinal clash against Spain on Tuesday.** The 23-year-old center-half, nursing a back injury since the group stage, was rested in France’s final group match against Norway. His absence, alongside Dayot Upamecano’s, raises questions about Les Bleus’ defensive stability ahead of a high-stakes match.

Saliba has been troubled by a back injury throughout the tournament. He was omitted from France’s lineup in the 2-0 quarterfinal win over Morocco on Thursday, a result that underscored his absence. The injury first surfaced during the group stage, where he was held off in the match against Norway. Without him, France’s defense has remained solid, conceding just two goals in six matches-one more than Spain, their semifinal opponents.

France’s defensive duo of Saliba and Upamecano has been a cornerstone of their World Cup success. The pair started the quarterfinal against Morocco, and their partnership has helped Les Bleus maintain a clean sheet in four of their six matches. With Saliba sidelined, manager Didier Deschamps will need to rely on alternatives like Achraf Hakimi or Raphael Varane. The absence of both Saliba and Upamecano could test France’s depth, especially against Spain’s attacking threat.

There are no immediate details on Saliba’s fitness, but his absence from training suggests he remains a ways off from returning. France’s semifinal against Spain on Tuesday will be a critical test of their defensive resilience without him. If Saliba cannot recover in time, France may have to adjust their tactics or rely on younger defenders. His return would be crucial for France’s title ambitions, but for now, the focus remains on the team’s ability to navigate the semifinal without him.

Despite Saliba’s absence, France has remained one of the tournament’s most disciplined teams. They’ve conceded just two goals in six matches, matching Spain’s tally. The semifinal against Spain will be a tough test, but France’s ability to adapt without their key defender will be closely watched. If they can secure a victory, they’ll advance to the final with a chance to reclaim the World Cup trophy.