A number of impressive performances saw William Saliba receive his first-ever call-up to the French national team for a World Cup earlier this month, but the 21-year-old is still waiting to make an appearance in Qatar.
Manager Didier Deschamps has stuck with his preferred centre-back trio of the more experienced Raphael Varane, Ibrahima Konate and Dayot Upamecano for games against Australia, Denmark and Tunisia.
Saliba looked like he was in with a chance of making his first start today (Wednesday) after the defender reportedly played in a friendly match a few days ago, but Deschamps introduced him off the bench in the 63rd minute instead.
France have secured a place in the last 16 by finishing top of Group D, so the chances of Deschamps alternating his squad and starting Saliba in games moving forward are looking slim, unless injuries force his hand.
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Although Saliba will understandably be disappointed with his lack of involvement in the tournament so far, it can turn out to be hugely beneficial for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal, who will be receiving a fresher version of the player rather than a tired or injured one when he returns to north London next month.
