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France have been handed a significant double boost ahead of their final World Cup warm-up clash against Northern Ireland, with William Saliba declared fit and Ousmane Dembele poised for a return. Head coach Didier Deschamps has sought to ease concerns surrounding his key defender while revealing a tactical tweak in his attacking options.

Deschamps dismisses concerns over Saliba’s fitness

The Arsenal centre-back has been managing a recurring back problem, sparking suggestions that he may require surgery after the World Cup. However, Deschamps has moved swiftly to allay any doubts about his participation in the upcoming friendly and the tournament itself.

“All 26 players will be available for tomorrow’s match,” Deschamps confirmed in an interview with Telefoot ahead of the Northern Ireland game. “He is under the supervision of our medical team, and we are monitoring how he feels. It’s an issue he has been dealing with for several weeks, but it hasn’t stopped him from featuring in every match for Arsenal, including the [Champions League] final where he played 120 minutes.”

Dembele returns to full training after Champions League success

While Saliba continues to manage his recovery, Dembele is set to be reintegrated into the side after a brief rest period. The Paris Saint-Germain winger was an unused substitute during the recent 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast, as he was given extra time off following his demanding Champions League triumph over Arsenal. Deschamps has now confirmed that the pacey forward is in contention for a starting berth in the final warm-up match on Monday.

When asked if the former Barcelona star would feature, Deschamps replied, “Yes, like other players. Ousmane is among those, like Desire (Doue), who didn’t play after the final. I felt it was crucial for him to recover properly.” The return of the Ballon d’Or winner’s speed and flair will be a huge boost for France as they look to rediscover their attacking rhythm.

Reports of tension over image rights

Despite the positive news on the fitness front, not everything appears harmonious within the French camp. Reports have surfaced suggesting growing tension concerning the use of player image rights. Big names Kylian Mbappe and Rayan Cherki are said to be dissatisfied with the French Football Federation (FFF) over a promotional campaign involving a betting sponsor.

The players have reportedly sought clarification from the federation, with sources claiming they are “unhappy that many of their images are being used in advertisements for a betting company, an official partner of the FFF.” Deschamps will be eager to ensure that such off-field matters do not distract from the team’s preparations as they gear up for their final European friendly.

Focus turns to the World Cup opener

All efforts are now directed toward the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, where France are set to face familiar rivals Senegal. Memories of the 2002 upset still linger, and Deschamps is determined to avoid a similar setback this time. The return of a fit Saliba and a rejuvenated Dembele offers the tactical versatility needed to navigate a challenging Group I.

With the final tune-up against Northern Ireland serving as the last test, Deschamps’ attention will shift to maintaining the fitness of his core players while smoothly integrating the Champions League winners back into his tactical plans. Les Bleus enter the World Cup once again among the top favourites, and with their stars returning in form, expectations across France remain sky-high.