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

William Saliba has been ruled out of the French national football team's upcoming tour in the United States due to a left ankle injury sustained in the English League Cup final against Manchester City. This injury, confirmed by the French Football Federation, requires a minimum rest period of ten days, forcing Saliba to withdraw from the squad ahead of key friendly matches against Brazil and Colombia.

In Saliba's place, coach Didier Deschamps has called up Maxence Lacroix, a 25-year-old defender from Crystal Palace, marking Lacroix's first inclusion in the senior national team. Lacroix expressed his excitement about this milestone, considering it a childhood dream, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching.

Lacroix has previously represented France extensively at youth levels — including the U16, U17, U18, and U20 teams — though he has not featured for the U21s. This season, he has featured in 43 matches for Crystal Palace despite the club's mid-table Premier League standing. He joined the French squad in Boston and will participate in the friendlies against Brazil on March 26 and Colombia on March 29, both set to kick off at 21:00.

Besides Saliba's absence, the French squad is also missing Manu Koné, who suffered an injury during a Europa League match and will not be replaced. Conversely, Hugo Ekitike, who recently dealt with an injury while playing for Liverpool, is available and in good condition for selection.

The squad's gathering at Clairefontaine before departing for the United States underscores France's preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The upcoming matches against Brazil and Colombia serve as crucial tests for the team, now featuring Lacroix as a new defensive option in place of the injured Saliba.

This reshuffle demonstrates the challenges coach Deschamps faces ahead of the World Cup, requiring adaptability due to injuries but also presenting opportunities for emerging talents like Lacroix to establish themselves on the international stage.