William Saliba reveals one Arsenal teammate can also speak French, it helps them both ‘grow together’

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Arsenal star William Saliba is developing into one of the best centre-backs in the world, and he is helping his team thrive.

The Frenchman has been a key figure since he became a starter two years ago, and he is now one of Arsenal’s most important players.

Real Madrid are reportedly interested in Saliba for a future move, with the 23-year-old potentially set to become a generation-leading defender, but he cannot take all the credit for Arsenal’s incredible defensive record.

Arsenal have conceded just one goal in five games this season, and whilst Saliba has been fundamental to this, his defensive partner Gabriel Magalhaes has also been exceptional.

Jamie Carragher has claimed that Saliba and Gabriel could go down in Premier League history if they end up winning trophies together, and they appear perfectly suited for each other as a pairing, which Saliba has now opened up on.

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William Saliba explains why Arsenal partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes has been so strong

Speaking to club media, Saliba praised his defensive partner, and claimed that the lack of language barrier has helped them both thrive.

“There’s no secret,” he stated.

“I’m good, he’s good. We both speak French and we play now in our third season together.

“We know each other so well and it’s a pleasure to play every game with him.

“We grow together because he’s young as well, so it’s really good to have him by my side.”

Despite being born and raised in Brazil, Gabriel speaks French after spending several years at Ligue 1 side Lille, and this has clearly aided his communication with France International Saliba in the Arsenal back line.

Why Saliba and Gabriel are the perfect partnership

Although both defenders excel at the fundamentals, with the pair both strong in the air, powerful in the tackle and comfortable on the ball, they both have different strengths which helps each other succeed.

Saliba is superior with the ball at his feet, and his remarkable composure is perfectly contrasted by Gabriel’s aggression.

Gabriel’s strength in the air also helps, with his threat from set-pieces stronger than anyone else in Europe. Whilst Saliba is the calm, ball-playing option, Gabriel is the fierce, physical wall which has formed the best defence in the Premier League.