Saliba injury struggle continues at the World Cup as the France defender admits playing through pain ahead of the Iraq clash

France defender William Saliba has revealed that he has been playing through a persistent back problem for several months, admitting he is not fully fit as he continues his World Cup campaign with Les Bleus.

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Speaking on Saturday ahead of France’s Group I encounter against Iraq in Philadelphia, the Arsenal centre-half said he has been managing the issue since the closing stages of last season but remains determined to help France challenge for a third World Cup title.

The 24-year-old played a crucial role in Arsenal’s Premier League triumph last season, helping the club secure its first league championship in 22 years.

However, he disclosed that physical discomfort has accompanied him through both domestic and international competitions.

“I’ve had some minor niggles for several months. I’ve been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League. But the coaching staff are handling it very well,” Saliba told reporters.

The defender described the World Cup as an occasion too significant to miss despite his physical condition.

“The World Cup comes round only once every four years, so you’ve got to grit your teeth,” he said.

Saliba acknowledged that he is currently operating below his peak level but insisted he would not use fitness concerns as an excuse.

“I’m not at 100 percent, but there are plenty of players who aren’t at 100 percent either. You can’t make excuses,” he added.

The Saliba Injury Struggle has been carefully managed by France’s medical and coaching staff since the squad assembled for the tournament.

The defender has reportedly followed an individualised training programme designed to reduce the impact of the back issue while maintaining his readiness for matches.

Despite the injury concern, Saliba delivered an impressive performance in France’s opening group-stage victory over Senegal on Tuesday, helping the two-time world champions begin their campaign on a positive note.

France, champions in 1998 and 2018, can secure a place in the knockout stage with victory over Iraq on Monday. The match will be followed by their final Group I fixture against Norway four days later.

Saliba’s comments offer a glimpse into the physical demands facing elite players during major tournaments, particularly after a long club season.

His willingness to continue despite discomfort underlines the importance France place on his presence at the heart of their defence as they pursue another World Cup crown.

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With qualification for the knockout rounds within reach, France will hope their defensive leader can continue to perform at a high level while managing a condition that has troubled him for months.