Arsenal fans are all saying the same thing about William Saliba after Forest clash

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Many Arsenal fans were less than impressed by what they saw from William Saliba against Nottingham Forest.

Whilst Arsenal were able to hold out for a 2-1 win against Nottingham Forest, Taiwo Awoniyi set up a grandstand finish at the City Ground as he spun off William Saliba and pulled one back for the hosts in the 89th minute.

The Nottingham Forest striker had been introduced from the bench at half-time, and troubled Saliba with his strength and pace throughout the second half.

Saliba is, of course, a top class centre-back and a firm-favourite at the north London club, but he did not have his finest hour on Tuesday evening. Mikel Arteta will simply be grateful that Awoniyi’s goal did not cost his side any points, as the Gunners’ win took them within two points of current league leaders Liverpool.

Saliba has earned plenty of praise so far this season, even from former Arsenal centre-back Thomas Vermaelen. Premier League icon Alan Shearer has described Saliba as “class personified,” and the £27 million former Saint-Etienne man did produce some neat touches against Forest.

At the crucial moment, though, as he battled with Awoniyi in the air, the Frenchman was not strong enough. The Forest striker was able to ease the 22-year-old aside, turn away from him, and slot the ball past David Raya from close range. 

Arsenal fans have say on William Saliba

The Arsenal centre-back is still very early in his career, and perhaps a lack of experience was on display as he failed to gain the advantageous position against Awoniyi as the ball came into the box.

Taking to X, one Arsenal fan said, “Saliba’s biggest weakness is his ability to use his body weight. It’s something he can easily improve at over time though.” Another supporter shared his verdict, “Saliba should of done way better simple.” One fan felt the 12-cap France international “was sloppy today” in general.

One fan stated, “Saliba should have done better to defence that header. It was too easy for Awoniyi.” Whilst another, more forgiving, supporter chipped in with, “I’m not even gonna blame Saliba, he’s saved us enough times to have some grace. Awonyi got a lucky bounce and took his chance, it is what it is.” The important thing is that Arsenal returned to the Emirates Stadium with three points in tow, and Saliba will learn from that moment.