Saliba injured on France duty, could miss Arsenal's season start

Saliba injured, could miss start of Arsenal's season

William Saliba picked up an injury on France duty and may now miss the start of the new season for Arsenal (1). The timing stings. Saliba was a regular starter for France at this World Cup after a superb club campaign, and Arsenal's opening weeks suddenly look shakier without him. No details yet on the exact nature or how long he will be out.

Third-place broadcast in Lille cancelled

The France–England third-place match will not be shown at the Zénith de Lille on Saturday July 18 as originally planned (2). No reason has been given for the cancellation. Fans who had that circled now need a different plan.

Petition demands semi-final replay

Some French supporters are not letting the Spain loss go quietly. A petition is circulating calling for the World Cup semi-final to be replayed over a refereeing decision (3). It is unlikely to go anywhere, but the frustration is real.

Fan reactions

The dressing room is part of the story too. A report from L'Equipe says Ousmane Dembélé spoke up at half-time against Spain, and several teammates were not happy about it, feeling he was pointing fingers while struggling himself. Fans are split: some see it as passion, others as poor timing. Read the thread on r/soccer.