This is not just a fitness scare around a squad player. Saliba has grown into one of the most trusted centre-backs available to France, bringing authority in duels, composure on the ball and the ability to defend big spaces behind him.
The report says he already had a minor problem before the final, which only adds to the uncertainty. If he is limited, France may still have depth, but they would lose a defender who increasingly looks central to their balance at the back.
Tournament football is unforgiving. One doubt in defence can quickly reshape selection, partnerships and the whole feel of a team before a ball is kicked. France are expected to have alternatives, but changing the defensive plan so close to the first match is rarely ideal.
There is also a mental side to this. Saliba recently said: “Nós não desistimos, merecemos esse título, e vamos voltar na próxima temporada para tentar ganhar também.” That resilience is part of what makes him valuable. Even so, recovery timelines do not bend to mentality alone.
For now, the key word is uncertainty. The report stops short of offering a firm timescale, which leaves France balancing hope with caution. Saliba’s recent line - “Agora somos campeões... tivemos a boa mentalidade... para seguir em frente” - speaks to a player used to responding well to setbacks.
The next big storyline is obvious: whether Saliba is fit enough to face Senegal, or whether France must begin their campaign without one of their most important defenders before later games against Iraq on 22 June and Norway on 26 June.