Didier Deschamps surprised Arsenal fans on Tuesday evening when he left William Saliba out of the starting XI. It was expected that the centre-back would start for Les Bleus.
Saliba has been sensational for Arsenal so far in the Premier League campaign. His defensive excellence was met by his attacking capabilities as he scored his first goals for the Gunners with a wonder strike against Bournemouth and a precise header against Brentford.
There had been doubts surrounding Saliba’s contract situation at Arsenal with the defender’s current deal expiring at the end of the season, with an option to extend by a further year. Negotiations would have seemingly been harder due to his inclusion in the France, but Deschamps deciding not to start him makes it easier for the Gunners.