Per Mertesacker forced to pick between Arsenal star and Tony Adams, he finally ends the debate

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal academy director Per Mertesacker has now revealed how he thinks one current star compares with club legend Tony Adams.

Tony Adams is an iconic figure at Arsenal.

The former centre-back, who served as captain for many years, was on the books in North London from 1983 until 2002.

He spent his entire career with the Gunners, making 672 appearances, across all competitions, scoring 49 goals. He won four league titles, three FA Cups, two League Cups, and the 1994 European Cup Winners’ Cup, amongst other honours. Adams has now been immortalised in statue form outside the Emirates Stadium.

The Arsenal legend remains a huge favourite at the club, and is certainly considered one the best players to have ever worn the famous red and white shirt.

Adams remains supportive of Arsenal, though he has been critical of Mikel Arteta in the past.

Another former Arsenal defender, Per Mertesacker, has now given his verdict on how Adams compares to one of Arteta’s current stars.

• READ MORE: All Arsenal legends in the Premier League Hall of Fame from Henry to Wenger

Per Mertesacker pits William Saliba against Arsenal icon Tony Adams

William Saliba has already established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the world at this time. He was able to shine at Euro 2024 with France, and is a lynchpin at the back for the Gunners.

Mertesacker has already shown that he holds Saliba in very high esteem, by ranking him above a number of other modern greats.

However, the German had a tougher time choosing between the 23-year-old and Adams.

In a video clip posted to X by Mail Sport, Mertesacker was asked to name the better player out of Saliba and Adams. After taking a moment to ponder his answer, he ultimately sided with the 57-year-old.

Certainly, in terms of silverware, Saliba remains a long way behind Adams. The Frenchman will be desperate to start adding medals to his collection as soon as possible though.

Arsenal will still want more from Saliba

As good as Saliba has been for the Gunners, given his age he still ought to have his best years ahead of him. Arteta will be aiming to help the centre-back raise his level even further over the coming years.

Arsenal will also be hoping that Saliba can raise his game in the Champions League this season, as he will certainly have taken plenty of confidence from his Euro 2024 exploits that he can carry into the continental club competition.