Saliba Injury Concerns France Ahead of Spain Clash

The French national team received a significant blow during their ongoing match against Spain in the 2026 World Cup semi-final, as defender William Saliba sustained a muscle injury that forced him to leave the pitch early.

An Arsenal star collapsed on the pitch in the 29th minute without any contact from a Spanish player, raising concerns within the French coaching staff.

Coach Didier Deschamps was forced to make an immediate substitution, bringing on defender Maxence Lacroix for Saliba in the 30th minute.

The injury comes at a difficult time for the French national team, who are trailing 1-0 after the goal scored by Spain's Mikel Oyarzabal from a penalty in the 22nd minute.

William Saliba is considered one of the key components of the French national team's defense during the current tournament, making his injury a significant concern ahead of the crucial stage of the World Cup, whether France qualifies for the final or plays in the third-place match.