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Former Arsenal defender waxes lyrical over William Saliba
By Adam Schultz
Former Arsenal defender William Gallas has heaped praise on his fellow countryman William Saliba after the defender’s impressive start to life in north London.
There isn’t one person on the planet that hasn’t been impressed with what William Saliba has produced this season.
The 21-year-old has been in superb form for the Gunners, often being close to the best player on the pitch. His ball skills, defensive calmness, and his ability to defuse any situation without a bead of sweat are incredible.
Former Arsenal defender William Gallas waxes lyrical over William Saliba
Great performance again from William Saliba 👏
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) October 1, 2022
Future's bright ✨ pic.twitter.com/J7q3EDPSGt
Now, Willam Gallas has become the latest person to sing the 21-year-old’s praises. Speaking via the Metro, Gallas thinks that the defender could easily win PFA Young Player of the Year.
"“I thought Saliba was excellent,” Gallas said. “He was very strong in his performance, focused, he won all of his individual battles and duels. For his age, the maturity that he showed in his performance was very good. If he continues to do what he does, then he has a very bright future in the game.“I think with the way things are going for him, if he continues with this development, then he can become one of the top defenders. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him nominated for the Young Player of the Year award because he has been that good,” he added."
That is certainly high praise for the central defender, and it is more than justified. After several loan spells away from the club, many thought that the prospect of seeing Saliba in an Arsenal shirt was all but gone.
William Saliba has suggested early talks have begun over signing a new contract at Arsenal. pic.twitter.com/nvXwhsWpD1
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) October 3, 2022
Thankfully, he returned to the club this summer and has been tremendous in every Arsenal game. Aside from his unfortunate own goal against Leicester and a sub-par display at Old Trafford, Saliba has not put a foot wrong in the heart of the Arsenal defence.
The term ‘generational’ has been used, and it’s easy to see why. He has pace and strength; he is superb defensively and is comfortable with the ball at his feet. He also relishes the brutal physicality of the Premier League, which can be a breaking point for some.
With reports of a new contract being in the works, many Arsenal fans hope Saliba sticks around for the foreseeable future. After all, that song is rather catchy.