Arsenal defender William Saliba is poised to return to France’s starting lineup for their Round of 32 match against Sweden, scheduled to take place in New Jersey. Saliba, who has been managing a back issue over recent months, was rested for France’s final group stage encounter against Norway, which the team won 4-1. That match featured a first-half hat-trick from Ousmane Dembele in Boston.

In Saliba’s absence, Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix stepped in and delivered a strong performance. Despite this, France’s head coach Didier Deschamps is expected to reinstate Saliba for the knockout round, where he will face off against Sweden’s Arsenal teammate Victor Gyokeres.

Additionally, the defender battle for a starting spot continues on the left flank, with Aston Villa’s Lucas Digne competing against Theo Hernandez for a place in the lineup against Sweden. The outcome of this selection will be crucial as France look to advance further in the tournament.