William Saliba, in a recent interview, humbly acknowledged his status as one of the Premier League’s elite defenders.
The 23-year-old Arsenal player, who transferred from Saint-Etienne in 2019 for £27 million, had a standout season in 2023/24, contributing significantly to Arsenal’s title pursuit.
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Saliba’s defensive prowess was evident as he led the league in clean sheets and was the most successful in regaining possession in the defensive third among centre-backs.
His consistent performance earned him a spot in France’s 26-man squad for Euro 2024, marking him as the first Arsenal player to play every minute of a Premier League season.
As Arsenal prepares for their friendly against Canada and the upcoming European Championship in Germany, Saliba’s confidence is palpable.
His recent comments to L’Equipe reflect his self-assuredness and his recognition as a top defender.
“I think I am in the top three [defenders in the league],” he said. “We finished with the best defence. I watch a lot of matches. I am a very humble person but last season, just like this season, I am in the top three defenders.
He added: “I need to continue to work to go even higher in terms of concentration, I am a lot better. Before, I could play a top match but in one phase of play, I slept a bit. That is no longer the case. I am always on alert.”
Saliba went on to compare himself to Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, who has established himself as one of the world’s best defenders since his transfer move to Anfield in 2018.
“Virgil van Dijk has the aura, for example. He’s the boss, he commands everything. You feel that it scares the attackers,” Saliba continued.
“But I’m starting to feel the same. I’m starting to see that the attackers feel fear. Sometimes, when players are in your area, they don’t have fun.”
“And when there is a one-on-one and the player will back down, take out the ball, flee the duel, it’s fun (smile).”
The 23-year-old also opened up on Arsenal’s battle with Manchester City last campaign after Pep Guardiola’s team secured a fourth-consecutive Premier League title on the last day.
“We played against them three times [last season] and we made them struggle,” he said. “They feel and we feel that we are close to them. Next year, we will have an even better war.”
