William Saliba will face Arsenal team-mates Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi and David Raya when France meet Spain in Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final.
The match guarantees Arsenal at least one representative in the final at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, 19 July.
Saliba is expected to continue at the heart of Didier Deschamps’ defence despite managing back discomfort during the tournament. The centre-back missed France’s final training session on Saturday, but he has remained a regular throughout their run to the last four.
France have conceded only once with Saliba on the pitch. They have also kept clean sheets against Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco during the knockout stages.
Arsenal’s official semi-final preview confirms that Saliba is one of eight Gunners still competing at the tournament.
Merino could lead Arsenal’s Spanish involvement
Merino has played the largest role of Arsenal’s three Spain internationals.
The midfielder has featured throughout Spain’s campaign and scored another decisive goal during their quarter-final victory over Belgium. His tournament follows a difficult second half of the domestic season after recovering from a stress fracture.
Zubimendi and Raya remain available to Luis de la Fuente but have yet to appear at the World Cup. Their lack of minutes means neither can be described as a confirmed starter against France.
ReadArsenal previously reported how Arsenal were guaranteed a World Cup finalist once the semi-final draw was confirmed.
Mikel Arteta will be watching closely, particularly given Saliba’s back problem and the limited recovery period before Arsenal begin their pre-season programme.
France face Spain at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm UK time.
The winners will meet either England or Argentina in the World Cup final, ensuring Arsenal involvement regardless of Tuesday’s result.
