3 standout Arsenal players from dominant win away at Chelsea

2. William Saliba

Coming into the season, William Saliba’s future was in doubt. Multiple loan spells and a potential falling out with the manager made his departure seem more likely than not. On the field, he would be facing a tough backline to break into, with both Ben White and Gabriel impressive last season. Takehiro Tomiyasu’s injury gave him a glimpse of an opportunity and he has since seized it with both hands.

Arsenal press high and stay compact, meaning the back four must be positioned on the halfway line. One minor mistake and attackers are through on goal with only Aaron Ramsdale to beat. Few defenders feel comfortable when given acres of space behind them to defend; Saliba is one of the few who does. Impeccably positioned, aerially dominant and possessing brilliant anticipation of danger, the Frenchman ensured that the Chelsea attackers would not get even a sniff at goal.

He is as assured out of possession as he is with it, covering the channels quickly before emerging with the ball and moving it quickly. His speed of thought in shifting the ball allows Arsenal to sustain pressure. Chelsea never looked settled and much of that was due to both his defensive and offensive acumen. And who can forget that marauding run down the right, almost Ronaldinho-esque in its grace.

Given his impressive performances this season, Saliba must be tied down to a new contract as soon as possible. He could anchor this defence for a decade or more. Already looking like a world-class talent, his potential to improve even further is astounding indeed.

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