William Saliba just wrote himself into Arsenal history vs Sporting CP, he’s only the sixth player to do this

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Arsenal recorded a long overdue away win in the Champions League by beating Sporting CP 5-1. 

Arsenal’s 350-day streak without a European away goal was ended by Gabriel Martinelli, who found the net after just six minutes.

The Gunners’ right side tormented Sporting, who conceded two more goals in the first half courtesy of Gabriel Magalhaes and Kai Havertz before Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard scored after the interval.

It was a much needed win on the road in the Champions League for Mikel Arteta’s side, who did what Manchester City couldn’t and dominated in Lisbon.

William Saliba joins Arsenal record books

Arsenal’s win wasn’t only memorable for Arteta but for one player in particular too.

William Saliba recorded his 100th competitive appearance for the Gunners, with the victory writing him into the record books.

By winning against Sporting, the Frenchman recorded his 65th victory in Arsenal colours, which with reference to his 100 appearances, sees him achieve a feat only five before him have managed.

Saliba became the sixth Arsenal player to win 65 or more of their opening 100 games for the club and the list is compiled of some unlikely names.

Edu Gaspar, Nacho Monreal, Johan Djourou, Mohamed Elneny and Alexandre Song are the only other Gunners to have a win rate 65 or higher from their first century.

Monreal leads the way with 71 wins from his first 100 in red and white, with Saliba coming in joint-fifth alongside Song, who also registered 65 victories by the milestone.

Saliba joins the 100 club

It’s been quite the journey for Saliba at Arsenal, having had to wait to make an impression on Arteta, who sent the centre-back on consecutive loans to gain experience.

Given how impactful the Frenchman has been in recent years, it’s remarkable to remember that it was only in 2022/23 that the 23-year-old took his first Premier League steps.

So early into his career, Saliba is regarded as one of the world’s best, being an integral part of the French national team and of course, Arteta’s project.

It’s 100 not out for the defender, who will be eager to get his hands on some silverware in the near future to crown his early efforts at the Emirates.