A number of impressive performances saw William Saliba receive his first-ever call-up to the French national team for a World Cup earlier this month, but the 21-year-old is still waiting to make an appearance in Qatar.
Manager Didier Deschamps has stuck with his preferred centre-back trio of the more experienced Raphael Varane, Ibrahima Konate and Dayot Upamecano for games against Australia, Denmark and Tunisia.
Saliba looked like he was in with a chance of making his first start today (Wednesday) after the defender reportedly played in a friendly match a few days ago, but Deschamps introduced him off the bench in the 63rd minute instead.
READ MORE: William Saliba's own self-assessment may explain Didier Deschamps' decision on Arsenal star
France have secured a place in the last 16 by finishing top of Group D, so the chances of Deschamps alternating his squad and starting Saliba in games moving forward are looking slim, unless injuries force his hand.
Although Saliba will understandably be disappointed with his lack of involvement in the tournament so far, it can turn out to be hugely beneficial for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal, who will be receiving a fresher version of the player rather than a tired or injured one when he returns to north London next month.
Many clubs including Arsenal face an unprecedented fixture schedule this season due to the World Cup taking place during domestic and European competitions. The Gunners find themselves top of the Premier League after 14 games, through to the knockout stages of the Europa League and will get their FA Cup campaign underway in January against Oxford United.
For Arteta, this will no doubt be a concern as he looks to lead the club back into the Champions League next season. However, a lack of game time for his players, whether that's due to making the bench or exiting the World Cup early, will likely ease his worries.
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