Following William Saliba’s injury, Jean-Clair Todibo could be called up for the French national team as they prepare for Euro-2024 qualifiers.

The recent injury to Arsenal defender William Saliba during the Europa League knockout stages may pave the way for Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo to make his debut with the French national team.

Saliba’s injury during Europa League match

Saliba was named in Didier Deschamps’ squad for the Euro-2024 qualifiers but was forced to leave the pitch during the match against Sporting CP due to a suspected back injury. He was not included in Arsenal’s squad for their 4-1 win over Crystal Palace.

With the Euro-2024 qualifying campaign kicking off on March 24 in Saint-Denis against the Netherlands and continuing on March 27 against Ireland in Dublin, Saliba’s likely absence opens up a spot in the French team and that is a much-discussed subject in the French media.

Todibo and Disasi as potential Saliba replacements

Two candidates have emerged as possible replacements: 25-year-old Axel Disasi, who has earned three caps for the national team, and 23-year-old Jean-Clair Todibo.

A decision on Saliba’s replacement will be made in the coming days following the completion of league matches. Arsenal are expecting to learn more about the severity of Saliba’s injury on Monday.

Saliba was initially selected alongside fellow defensive players Eduardo Camavinga, Wesley Fofana, Théo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konaté, Jules Koundé, Benjamin Pavard, and Dayot Upamecano.

If chosen, Todibo’s inclusion in the team would certainly emphasise the vast pool of talent in the French defence as they gear up for the Euro-2024 qualifiers, and how well Saliba is doing that he is automatically selected.