Cesc Fabregas predicts a long and prosperous Arsenal career for William Saliba

Former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas believes William Saliba can be the Gunners’ centre back for the next decade after his superb performance against Tottenham.

After several loan spells, William Saliba has taken all before him since linking up with Arsenal. The 21-year-old has barely put a foot wrong this season and has produced several commanding performances well beyond his years.

But his latest outing against Tottenham in the North London derby has caught the attention of former Gunners captain Cesc Fabregas. While most of the plaudits have been for Thomas Partey and Gabriel Jesus for their goals in the 3-1 win, Fabregas singled out Saliba for his performance in the Arsenal defence.

Cesc Fabregas predicts a long and prosperous Arsenal career for William Saliba

Speaking after Arsenal’s win, Fabregas had nothing but praise for the Frenchman after watching him play for St Etienne and hinted that he could be a staple in Arsenal’s defence for the next 15 to 20 years.

"“The man of the match could have been several players,” the Spaniard said.“I would like to mention someone who was so good but no one has mentioned him because he made it look so easy – Saliba.“This boy was in France for three years and I have watched him very closely. I was tipped off three years ago by an Arsenal scout when I was playing St Etienne for Monaco about this boy who they were interested in signing.“That night, he was the best player on the pitch. He could be Arsenal’s centre-back for the next 15-20 years now,” he added."

Saliba has quickly established himself as one of the Gunners’ best defenders, just eight games into his Premier League career. Such has been his form; some think that the 21-year-old has the potential to be one of the best central defenders in Europe and a case could be made that he’s already there.

Saliba has been a calming influence at centre-back; tackling and covering well, while scoring at the other end as well. The decision to loan him out for the last few years looks like good business, and now Arsenal are reaping the benefits.

With Saliba and Gabriel forming a good partnership, the Gunners have one of the best defensive records in the league, conceding just eight.

While all the attention has been on Gabriel Jesus, William Saliba has been equally impressive for Arsenal this season.