Sad news for Gunners as Mikel Arteta admit William Saliba could miss crucial matches for Arsenal again
Arsenal face an important decision regarding William Saliba and his possible participation in the 2024 Olympics in Paris, as his participation could affect his availability for the start of the 2024/25 Premier League season.
Thierry Henry is the manager of the France U21 national team and will lead Les Bleus in the upcoming tournament. His task is to select a squad of 18 players with four reserves, of which only three can be over the age of 23.
While world champions Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann and Olivier Giroud are strong candidates for the squad, Saliba could secure a place as an U23 player.
Philippe Diallo, president of the French football federation, encouraged Henry to put together the strongest possible squad, emphasising that they are keen to excel in the tournament. However, Arsenal have the right to refuse to release William Saliba because the Olympics are not recognised by FIFA. Despite this, the lure of a gold medal on home soil may outshine the selected players.
William Saliba was previously selected for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, but withdrew from the squad so as not to miss Arsenal’s pre-season activities.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Mbappe has expressed his desire to represent France in the Olympics, emphasising his long-standing dream of participating in this event.
The situation is further complicated by the European Championship in Germany, where France coach Didier Deschamps is expected to select William Salib. The tournament, which takes place between 14 June and 14 July, will require participating players to take extra rest before the start of pre-season with their clubs.
The Olympic football tournament, which runs between 24 July and 9 August, culminates just a week before the possible start of the 2024/25 Premier League season on 16 August. If Saliba plays and France progress to the final, his chances of starting the Premier League season at Arsenal will be significantly reduced.
