Arsenal centre-back William Saliba is set to make his 2022 FIFA World Cup debut tomorrow for France, with the defender to replace Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate in the XI against Tunisia.
According to L’Equipe, Saliba will be one of three changes in the backline as Real Madrid star Eduardo Camavinga is also set to make his first start of the World Cup with Benjamin Pavard retaining his spot. Raphael Varane will be the sole defender to keep his place from the Denmark match.
Saliba went into Qatar as arguably France’s most in-form centre-back. However, Didier Deschamps instead turned to Liverpool’s Konate and Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano, with the Arsenal titan yet to play a single minute at the World Cup.
This is expected to change tomorrow though against Tunisia, with the £27m Arsenal star set to be drafted into the France starting XI as Les Bleus aim to make it three wins from three in their World Cup group stage ahead of the knockout phase of the competition.
Indeed, many Arsenal fans will be surprised with how little Saliba has featured for France at the World Cup, with the defender arguably one of the best in his position in the Premier League this season and more than capable of starting for the reigning world champions in Qatar.
However, the 21-year-old will now get his chance against Tunisia, with France looking to top their World Cup group in what will be a momentous occasion for Saliba’s young career, with Arsenal fans hopeful that the defender has another strong performance.
Saliba must take France World Cup chance against Tuniai with both hands
France’s dominating performances at the World Cup have many thinking that the European giants might have what it takes to go all the way and reclaim football’s biggest prize. Yet for Saliba, the Arsenal star will only be thinking of keeping a clean sheet and impressing Deschamps.
Whilst the game might be of little consequence for France, Saliba being handed the chance to perform for his nation on the grandest of stages will mean everything for the Arsenal star, and a strong enough display could lead to more appearances in the competition.
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