I've just changed the clutch on my fiat 500 1.4 100hp 6 speed, the clutch was ok but the thrust bearing was dried out and squeaking.

I've put in a new 3 piece clutch and I've come to bolt the slave cylinder back on and realised that it is spring loaded, which is pushing the lever arm and engaging the thrust bearing which can't be right. The bearing won't last long if this is so.
Can someone confirm whether this is correct please. There is no hydraulic fluid in the system so I know its acting under spring pressure.
Thanks...

It is correct that it's spring loaded the pressure isn't enough to cause issue more to keep it in contact with the clutch arm.

Ok understood but I'm sure mine is actually pushing the arm such that the thrust bearing appears to be in contact with the fingers on the clutch cover plate, I'm sure it will be rotating when your foot is off the clutch pedal which just didn't loom right

The rod can feel a bit stiff to push back in after the cylinder has been off the car due to the hydraulic back-pressure but once it's back in the right place all should be OK as per John202020's advice.

Nick