France will rest William Saliba for their final 2026 World Cup group stage match against Norway on Friday, assistant manager Guy Stéphan has confirmed.
The Arsenal defender misses out as Didier Deschamps’ side look to seal top spot in Group I. Stéphan is overseeing the team in the absence of Deschamps, who has returned to France to attend his mother’s funeral.
Stéphan confirmed that “William won’t be here tomorrow” ahead of the clash with Erling Haaland’s Norway side. When asked who would replace the centre-back, he indicated that Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix would step in, referencing the defender’s recent substitution appearances.
Lacroix previously came on for Saliba during France’s final warm-up match against Northern Ireland. The Crystal Palace defender is reportedly of serious interest to Chelsea, who are monitoring his performances in the tournament.
Defensive Reshuffle
The expected changes will see a new-look back line take shape. Paris Saint-Germain full-back Malo Gusto is set to make his first World Cup start, while Théo Hernandez returns to the defence. Dayot Upamecano is expected to feature alongside Lacroix in central defence, with Mike Maignan continuing in goal.
Midfield Rotation
France have already secured their place in the knockout stages following back-to-back victories against Senegal (3-1) and Iraq (3-0). A draw or win against Norway will guarantee they finish top of Group I.
With qualification assured, Stéphan is expected to hand opportunities to several squad members. In midfield, Aurélien Tchouaméni is tipped to replace Adrien Rabiot alongside Manu Koné.
Further forward, Désiré Doué is expected to take Bradley Barcola’s place in the attacking line, though Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise are set to retain their starting berths.
Deschamps is expected to rejoin the squad in Boston on Saturday following the funeral proceedings. Stéphan, father of Queens Park Rangers head coach Julien Stéphan, will lead from the touchline in the interim.
The Norway fixture presents Lacroix with a significant opportunity to impress against one of Europe’s most dangerous forwards in Haaland, while simultaneously showcasing his credentials to potential suitors ahead of the summer transfer window.