Arsenal player, William Saliba compels France to make an abrupt turn in the Euros 2024

Arsenal center-back William Saliba has been a standout player in the Premier League this season; however, he has frequently been disregarded by France’s head coach, Didier Deschamps.

France has selected Arsenal defender William Saliba over Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool to commence their Euro 2024 campaign against Austria.

The centre-back was a prominent defender in the Premier League last season, playing a critical role as the Gunners extended their title challenge to the final day. Didier Deschamps has been reluctant to fully embrace the former Saint Etienne player, despite the fact that Mikel Arteta made Saliba his first choice at the defence and was rewarded with several top-tier performances from the 23-year-old.

Before Monday night’s match in Dusseldorf, Saliba had made his international debut in early 2022 and had appeared in 15 matches for his country. Nevertheless, he has never been the manager’s first choice.

He was a member of the World Cup squad in Qatar, but he primarily observed as Dayot Upamecano and Raphael Varane were prioritised. Despite Varane’s retirement from the national team, Saliba has primarily had to wait his turn, as Konate and Upamecano have been the preferred partnership.

Nevertheless, Deschamps has been more amenable to commencing in Germany without Konate following a mixed second season at Anfield, during which injuries contributed to an inconsistent campaign. Deschamps has been reluctant to start the Arsenal defender, despite the fact that he paired him with Saliba and Konate in the pre-tournament friendlies against Canada and Luxembourg.

Deschamps acknowledged Saliba’s influence in the Premier League in his remarks prior to the World Cup: “William is one of the finest defenders in the premier league.” I desire for him to continue performing the tasks that he excels at at Arsenal.

He recognised Saliba’s exceptional season at Arsenal, emphasising his collaboration with Gabriel. He continued, “He had an exceptionally successful season.”

“He was a critical component of Arsenal’s success this season, particularly in the defensive department, as he played in numerous matches, particularly with his partner Gabriel.”

“He has not received the same amount of playing time with us.” Automatisms are formed as a result of playing matches together. You possess comprehension and repetition.