William Saliba has praised an Arsenal defender who he feels has ‘everything’ required to play at the very highest level.
The Gunners have assembled an exceptional assortment of defenders in recent years, with their depth in this area of the pitch now arguably better than any team in world football.
Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have formed a formidable relationship at the heart of the Arsenal backline, while the rolling conveyor belt of full-backs includes an array of quality players.
Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie arrived in the summer to bolster this area of the pitch, and the former has already made a huge impression.
William Saliba says Cristhian Mosquera has ‘got everything’
Arsenal signed Mosquera from Valencia for just £13 million in the summer.
The Spaniard arrived likely expecting to play a peripheral role in N5 due to the presence of Saliba, but he’s already earned meaningful minutes due to an injury to the Frenchman.
Mosquera has looked outstanding thus far, showcasing his aggressive and front-footed defending, as well as his composure and quality on the ball.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Saliba waxed lyrical about Mosquera, claiming he has ‘everything’.
“He’s good, he’s good, he’s got everything,” Saliba said.
With Saliba now back from injury and fully fit, minutes could be hard to come by for Mosquera.
That said, the 21-year-old may ultimately prove too good to be left out on a weekly basis, and he may force his way into Arteta’s thinking.
Can Piero Hincapie step up like Cristhian Mosquera has?
Arsenal also signed Hincapie this summer to bolster the left-hand side of their defence.
Hincapie made a late cameo appearance against Athletic Club in the Champions League, but has yet to feature in any other matches since signing on deadline day.
The Ecuadorian has been struggling with a minor injury, and thus, missed what likely would’ve been an opportunity for him to impress against Port Vale on Wednesday night.
His time will come, however, and he certainly has the tools to make a similarly emphatic impact to Mosquera.
Exceptionally physical, quick and smooth in possession, Hincapie shares many characteristics with his Spanish counterpart, although he is more comfortable as a marauding full-back.
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