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William Saliba Withdraws from France Squad; Maxence Lacroix Earns First Call-Up

Arsenal defender William Saliba ruled out of France’s March friendlies vs. Brazil and Colombia due to left ankle injury; Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix named replacement for his debut national team selection.

2026-03-23T01:28:56.892Z

William Saliba Withdraws from France Squad; Maxence Lacroix Earns First Call-Up

Arsenal defender William Saliba has been ruled out of France’s national squad ahead of March friendlies against Brazil and Colombia. The FFF confirmed he is suffering recurring pain in his left ankle, requiring at least 10 days’ rest.

National coach Didier Deschamps selected Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix as his replacement. The 25-year-old earns his first France call-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

France faces Brazil in Boston on March 26, then Colombia in Washington on March 29.

Topics William Saliba Maxence Lacroix France national team FFF Didier Deschamps Crystal Palace