William Saliba could miss the beginning of the new 24/25 Premier League season due to his potential participation in the Olympic Games in Paris this summer.

Thierry Henry, who is managing the Olympic team, has reportedly expressed interest in including Saliba in his squad.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 12: William Saliba of Arsenal celebrates as David Raya of Arsenal (not pictured) makes the match-winning save from the fourth penalty from Galeno of FC Porto (not pictured) in the penalty shoot out during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between Arsenal FC and FC Porto at Emirates Stadium on March 12, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 12: William Saliba of Arsenal celebrates as David Raya of Arsenal (not pictured) makes the match-winning save from the fourth penalty from Galeno of FC Porto (not pictured) in the penalty shoot out during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between Arsenal FC and FC Porto at Emirates Stadium on March 12, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Arsenal could be without key defender William Saliba for the start of next season due to his potential involvement in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris

Arsenal and French football legend Thierry Henry, who is coaching the Olympic team, is reportedly interested in including William Saliba in his squad. The Olympic tournament runs from July 24th to August 9th, potentially causing a clash with the Premier League season which is expected to start around August 16th as Saliba would then need at least four weeks off after a summer of playing.

The Olympic football competition allows for 18 players with four reserves, but only three can be over the age of 23. Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Olivier Giroud are considered frontrunners for those overage spots. Saliba turns 23 later this month.

French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo emphasised their goal of building the strongest possible team. While Arsenal technically has the right to refuse Saliba’s release, the allure of competing for Olympic gold on home soil could be a strong motivator for the young defender.

Saliba is also expected to be included in France’s Euro 2024 squad which runs from June 14th to July 14th, further impacting his availability for Arsenal’s preseason preparations and stretching the player to the limit.

Saliba has 12 caps for France after making his debut on March 25th 2022. He has played the full 90 in three of his last five appearances for his country, starting six of the 19 games he has been called up for.