How one Arsenal star was Arteta’s ‘rock’ v Liverpool in 100% tackle masterclass

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Arsenal delivered a strong performance to secure a draw away at Liverpool, and defender William Saliba was particularly outstanding.

Mikel Arteta’s side remained defensively resolute to seal a 1-1 draw, after Mohamed Salah cancelled out Gabriel Magalhaes’ early opener, and both centre-backs were imperious in defence.

Saliba’s brilliance was on full display at Anfield, having missed this fixture last season due to injury, and the difference between the Frenchman and his stand-in last time, Rob Holding, was abundantly clear.

In what was a very evenly-contested game, Saliba was vital at the back as he prevented Cody Gakpo and Darwin Nunez from making an impact.

William Saliba was outstanding against Liverpool

Saliba’s stats from his performance further highlight why he was arguably the best player on the pitch alongside Gabriel at the back.

In defence, the 22-year-old made six recoveries, won five duels, made three clearances and completed both of his attempted tackles.

He also helped Arsenal push further up with three long-balls, whilst completing 82% of his passes. He was described as a “rock at the back,” following what was a masterclass in defending.

Saliba a game-changer for Arsenal

Arsenal drew 2-2 at Anfield last season without Saliba, in a game which they could have easily lost.

Arteta’s side went 2-0 up in the first half, on what was a crucial day in the Premier League title race, but found themselves under heavy pressure, and overall conceded 3.96xG from 21 shots.

Yesterday’s draw was a different story. Whilst there was a period of Liverpool dominance in the start of the second half, Arsenal managed to see out this pressure, with Saliba playing a big part defensively.

In a very even game, both sides had 13 shots, with Liverpool creating just 0.97xG, significantly less than they managed last season.

Saliba’s strong defending, as well as his speed, helped Arsenal push higher up, and therefore managed to contain Liverpool further away from their own box. In tough away games against top-class opposition, Saliba is the difference-maker at the back for Arsenal, and will be fundamental to any title challenge the Gunners embark on this season.

The Frenchman’s injury last season saw Arsenal collapse in the final month of the title race, and keeping him fit throughout the campaign will be a priority for Arteta, who may wish to add cover to his defence in the form of Sporting CP centre-back Goncalo Inacio.