3 standout players from the opening night victory over Crystal Palace

1. William Saliba

Arsenal have the best young defender in the world. This is not an overstatement or a rash reaction to one good performance. This is off the back of his performances for years. It is difficult to remember that William Saliba is only 21 years old. Few players in their prime have the presence and ability that Saliba does.

The Frenchman was calm and composed whenever he was on the ball. He played through the Palace press with ease. On the defensive side, he was faced with a physically demanding attack while also having to cover White if he got beat by Zaha. Out of all the defensive players on the pitch, Saliba was easily the best.

Aerially dominant, he asserted himself time and time again. His physicality is truly something to behold. His stature is one thing but his speed and athleticism when tracking runners into the channels are world-class. His ability also has the effect of allowing White to play on the right without there being a drop in quality (as was the case last season when Holding filled in).

Saliba’s mental strength is impressive as well. Selhurst Park is not an easy place to make a Premier League debut. The defender, however, was as unfazed as ever. Young players do not always withstand immense pressure but this facet of his game is encouraging indeed.

Debates about his loans and potential friction with the manager raged for years. Yet with Saliba proving he can do it in the Premier League, it is clear that Arteta made the right choices, with plenty still left to come from the exciting centre-back.

Arsenal fans would do well not to get carried away with a solid display against a challenging side. Although the excitement is palpable and the club is moving in the right direction, there is plenty to improve on as Arteta shapes his squad from plucky but inexperienced youngsters into top-four contenders and eventually title challengers. For now, though, enjoy a rousing victory of a new era.