William Saliba has revealed that he is not fully fit heading into France's latest World Cup challenge, but insists nothing will stop him from helping Les Bleus pursue a third world title.

The Arsenal defender, one of the standout performers of last season's Premier League-winning campaign, admitted he has been dealing with physical issues for several months but is determined to push through the discomfort for his country.

With France preparing to face Iraq in a crucial Group I clash, Saliba made it clear that the opportunity to play at a World Cup outweighs any concerns about pain or fatigue.

Sacrificing Comfort for the Biggest Stage

After helping Arsenal end a 22-year wait for the Premier League crown, Saliba arrived at the World Cup carrying the physical toll of a demanding season.

The 24-year-old revealed that he has been managing a series of minor injuries since the closing months of the club campaign.

"I've had some small problems for several months," Saliba admitted.

"There was the Premier League title race and the Champions League, so sometimes you simply have to keep going."

Despite the discomfort, the French defender has continued to perform at the highest level, supported by a carefully managed recovery programme created by the national team's medical staff.

According to Saliba, that support has been crucial.

"The coaching staff are handling the situation very well," he explained.

The World Cup Changes Everything

For many players, a lingering injury might be enough reason to rest.

For Saliba, the World Cup is different.

The defender believes opportunities like this are too rare to let pass.

"A World Cup only comes around once every four years," he said.

"When you have the chance to play in it, you have to fight through difficult moments."

His comments reflect the mentality that has helped France become one of the most consistent teams in international football over the last decade.

The desire to represent the nation on the biggest stage remains stronger than any physical setback.

Not at 100%, But Ready to Compete

Saliba was honest when asked about his current condition.

The Arsenal star acknowledged that he is not operating at full capacity.

"I'm not at 100 percent," he admitted.

"But many players in this tournament aren't at 100 percent either."

Rather than searching for excuses, Saliba insists the focus must remain on performance.

"You cannot hide behind injuries. Once you step onto the pitch, your job is to help the team win."

That attitude was evident in France's opening World Cup victory over Senegal.

Despite following an individual training programme since joining the squad, Saliba delivered another composed and authoritative defensive performance as Les Bleus began their campaign with three valuable points.

France Closing In on Qualification

The victory over Senegal has put Didier Deschamps' side in a strong position heading into their second group-stage match.

A win over Iraq in Philadelphia would guarantee France a place in the knockout rounds and reinforce their status as one of the tournament favourites.

With stars such as Kylian Mbappé leading the attack and Saliba anchoring the defence, confidence inside the French camp continues to grow.

The challenge now is maintaining momentum.

France will conclude their group-stage campaign against Norway, but first they have an opportunity to secure qualification early and continue building towards a potential deep run in the competition.

Leading by Example

Saliba's willingness to play through pain is unlikely to surprise anyone who has followed his rise over the past few years.

From becoming the cornerstone of Arsenal's title-winning defence to establishing himself as a key figure for France, the centre-back has repeatedly shown resilience and maturity beyond his years.

Now, as Les Bleus chase another World Cup crown, he is once again putting the team's ambitions ahead of personal comfort.

He may not be fully fit.

But as far as Saliba is concerned, that changes nothing.

The mission remains the same: help France win football's biggest prize.

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