4 ways Arsenal can line up with William Saliba next season

3. Left Centre-Back Ahead of Gabriel

While at present there is no reason to be breaking up an ever improving partnership, nor is there any reason why Gabriel shouldn’t be starting every week, if the question is who has more chance of being overtaking in the lineup between the centre-backs, it’s Gabriel.

Not for Saliba now, mind you. It’s his shirt and he should keep it.

What’s important is that the option is there. When Gabriel hasn’t played this season it’s been Rob Holding filling in on the left, and while Saliba isn’t left-footed either, he’s shown minimal teething problems playing on that side during his short career. Much of his time at OGC Nice came in the position.

Arteta is a stickler for balance in that area, though. And in fact everywhere.

It’s been reported of late that a left-sided central defender is a possible acquisition in the summer, one that either suggests either Holding, or Salib, could be moved on.

As far as first choice, it will require some effort to knock Gabriel off his perch. One of the most improved players in the whole squad this season, all elements of his game are a level above what they were in 2020/21.

Having a defender of Saliba’s quality who can play on both sides is nonetheless hugely beneficial.

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