France is entering the 2026 World Cup with high hopes, as it’s made the final in each of the past two editions and has arguably its strongest squad ever. From perennial Ballon d’Or contenders Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé in the attack to a litany of young midfield prospects to an experienced back line, Les Bleus have few weaknesses anywhere on the pitch.
However, France’s World Cup hopes took a massive blow on Monday, when star center back William Saliba, a talisman in an Arsenal side that nearly took down domestic champions Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final on Saturday, was ruled doubtful for the tournament with a back injury that has hampered him for several weeks.
Losing Saliba would seriously hinder his country’s chances, as the 25-year-old has emerged as one of the world’s best at his position. He’s helped the Gunners have the best defense in the Premier League in each of the past three seasons, and he recorded an interception in each of the three qualifying matches in which he played. He would’ve been slated to start alongside Bayern’s Dayot Upamecano in central defense, but if he misses the tournament, Ibrahima Konaté could start or Jules Koundé could shift over from right back. Either way, either player is a downgrade relative to Saliba.
Additionally, Didier Deschamps can make an emergency injury replacement to his squad up to 24 hours prior to Les Bleus’ opening match, which will begin at 3 p.m. ET on June 16 against Senegal. Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga, who’s played some left back for Los Blancos this season, could end up making the roster, with Lucas Hernández shifting over to center back. Benjamin Pavard, a hero in the 2018 World Cup side, could also provide more veteran leadership and stability in Saliba’s stead.
France currently has +475 odds at DraftKings Sportsbook to win its third World Cup, making it the joint favorite alongside Spain. It also has -215 odds to win a stacked Group I that also features Norway, Senegal, and Iraq, as well as -5000 odds to qualify for the knockout stages. Les Bleus are -220 favorites to take all three points from their opening match against the Lions of Teranga.
