Saliba’s Journey and Growing Influence
William Saliba, only 24, has taken a remarkable path to Arsenal’s starting XI. From AS Bondy and Montfermeil to Saint-Étienne, Nice and Marseille, his career has been carefully managed, allowing him to become a commanding presence for club and country. He is now an undisputed starter in Mikel Arteta’s defence and a regular in Didier Deschamps’ France squad.
This September was supposed to be another international window for Saliba, with France facing Ukraine and Iceland. Instead, he is recovering from an ankle injury suffered in Arsenal’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at the end of August. His absence has been estimated at three to four weeks, potentially keeping him out of matches against Manchester City, Newcastle and the Champions League opener against Athletic Bilbao.
Photo IMAGO
Arsenal’s Proposal Signals Intent
FootMercato report that Arsenal have acted quickly, recently offering Saliba a five-year extension to his current deal, which runs until June 2027. The club’s hierarchy are determined not to allow the Frenchman to run down his contract and reach the final year next summer.
“Arsenal have recently offered a five-year extension,” the report states, emphasising their desire to “continue to advance hand in hand together for a long time.” Talks are ongoing, but there is not yet an agreement.
Competition From Europe’s Elite
Several of Europe’s biggest clubs are monitoring the situation closely, with Real Madrid known to be long-time admirers of Saliba. Arsenal, however, are confident that their project and the player’s integral role under Arteta will convince him to stay.
Photo: IMAGO
Saliba has become more than just a defender for Arsenal, taking on increased responsibility and thriving under the weight of expectation. The Gunners’ management see him as a cornerstone of their future, on and off the pitch.
Arteta’s Defensive Challenge
In the short term, Arteta faces a selection headache. Saliba’s absence will be keenly felt as Arsenal navigate crucial fixtures in the Premier League and Europe. The manager values the Frenchman highly, describing him as “an essential piece of the London defence” whose leadership and composure set the standard for those around him.
Photo: IMAGO
For Arsenal, this contract negotiation is as much about safeguarding their future as it is about rewarding one of their most important players.
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Saliba is not only one of the best young defenders in Europe, he is the heartbeat of Arsenal’s defence. Seeing the club act early to secure his future is a sign that lessons have been learned from past situations where players have been allowed to run down their contracts.
The timing, despite his injury, is clever. It shows Saliba that he is valued, that the club sees him as central to its long-term plans. With Manchester City and Newcastle fixtures looming, Arsenal fans know how much they will miss him, but there is reassurance in knowing he is being tied down for the next stage of the project.
Fans have been crying out for decisive moves like this. It feels like Arsenal are not just protecting an asset, but building a team around a leader who could anchor the defence for the next decade. Real Madrid’s interest is flattering, but Saliba belongs at the Emirates, leading this side towards major silverware.