William Saliba
March 2026
William Saliba has withdrawn from the France squad because of recurring pain in his left ankle, forcing him out of the upcoming friendlies in the United States. Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix has been called up as his replacement for a first senior international selection. Saliba played the full 90 minutes in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final defeat before the French federation decided the issue required treatment and at least 10 days of rest. Lacroix’s call-up rewards a strong club season and gives France a fresh defensive option before the World Cup.