Iconic former Arsenal defender David O’Leary has high hopes for William Saliba.
William Saliba looks to have all the makings of a world class centre-back. It could be argued that the 22-year-old Arsenal star is already in that category.
Saliba has been in fine form so far this season, picking up where he left off last time out. The 10-cap France international was once again imperious on Sunday as the Gunners beat Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium. Saliba dominated Erling Haaland in his one-to-one battle with the striker, and was equally impressive when on the ball himself.
Mikel Arteta will be well aware that he has a phenomenal talent on his hands. The north London club have already taken steps to protect their investment in the player. Saliba signed a new long-term contract in July 2023, tying his future to Arsenal.
If Arsenal can keep Saliba on their books throughout the prime years of his career, then the £27 million ace stands a great chance of establishing himself as a club legend.
Another Arsenal icon, David O’Leary, certainly thinks that the Frenchman can etch his name in the club’s history. The Irishman, who was a centre-back himself in his playing days, represented Arsenal 722 times, more than any other player in the club’s history.
Saliba set to define a generation
Discussing Saliba’s potential with The Telegraph, O’Leary said, “he’s a Rolls-Royce. Arsenal have generally always had great defences – you look at people like Tony Adams and Sol Campbell, great players, and Saliba is going to be for his era.”
“He’s quick, calm, reads the game well. He’s good in the air and he’s strong. He’s a good passer of the ball and can step out. The big quality is that extra gear to get the ball. Where other defenders might be steaming across to kick it out of play, he’s able to get there in time to play it back to the keeper or another defender. I think we have a player who can be very, very special.”
Alongside Gabriel Magalhaes, the £190,000-a-week ace has established an extremely solid pairing at the heart of the Arsenal rearguard. If the defensive duo can stay fit and available throughout the season then Arteta will know that his Arsenal side can achieve something special this season.
Every previous period of success that the club has enjoyed has coincided with an outstanding centre-back being on the books. Saliba can be the defensive talisman throughout a new era of Arsenal glory.
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