Didier Deschamps has articulated his rationale for the limited use of William Saliba in the French national squad, citing certain aspects of the Arsenal defender’s play that he finds unfavorable.
Saliba, 23, has been instrumental in Arsenal’s strong performances for the last two seasons, establishing a formidable defensive duo with Gabriel Magalhaes.
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His stellar play last season earned him a spot in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year, and this season, Arsenal boasts the division’s top defensive record with only 24 goals conceded.
Despite his club success, Saliba has not secured a regular spot in France’s defense, with Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konate, and Benjamin Pavard preferred in the central defense roles.
Saliba remained on the bench during France’s recent 2-0 loss to Germany and has started only two of the last 18 matches for his country.
Following a loan spell at Marseille in 2022, Saliba’s 12 international appearances have not been significantly added to, despite his commendable form at Arsenal.
Expected to play against Chile on Tuesday in a changed lineup, Deschamps has justified Saliba’s sparse playing time, emphasizing the need for improvement in certain areas and adherence to the established hierarchy among center-backs.
‘He is having a good season, but he also does things that I don’t like so much,’ explained Deschamps at his pre-match press conference on Monday.
‘For France, he has limited game time, but when he plays, that hasn’t necessarily gone well.
‘The hierarchy doesn’t favour him at the moment, but he is here. Dayot Upamecano has had game time and perhaps William has had less.
‘With certain players, I make sure to persevere, because it can be confidence or little blockages that can shift.
‘Some don’t have any concerns, some need game time. William has had less game time, so that doesn’t allow him to be very calm.’
Despite his lack of minutes for France, Saliba is expected to be part of les Bleus’ team for this summer’s Euros, though he looks likely to have a watching brief with Deschamps favouring a number of other centre-backs more experienced at all levels.
