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William Saliba prepares for France's World Cup opener against Senegal

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 11:15 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

William Saliba prepares for France's World Cup opener against Senegal

Summary

William Saliba, Arsenal's center-back, is set to start for France against Senegal in their World Cup opener in East Rutherford on June 16. Saliba reflects on the challenges he faced after his €30 million transfer from Saint-Etienne to Arsenal, including personal loss and poor early performances. After being sent to train with Arsenal's reserves, he found success while on loan at OGC Nice and Marseille, leading to his current national team selection. His story highlights resilience in the face of adversity.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Saliba expected to start for France in World Cup opener.
•He faced personal and professional struggles after his 2020 transfer.
•Saliba's mother passed away when he was 19, affecting his early career.
•He had to play with Arsenal's U23s before flourishing on loan.
•Saliba's journey showcases resilience and growth in professional football.

Latest Updates

11:15 AMYahoo Sports — ‘I cost Arsenal €30m and I found myself playing with the U23s’ – How William Saliba bounced back from the ‘worst-ever year’ of his life

What they're saying

"
Arsenal centre-back William Saliba (25) is expected to start France’s World Cup opener against Senegal in East Rutherford on Tuesday night. The 2025-2026 Premier League champion’s entourage has ag...
— Yahoo Sports

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