In a surprising twist from the punditry world, former Manchester United defender Phil Jones has sparked debate by placing an ex-Arsenal academy product ahead of star centre-back William Saliba in his Premier League Team of the Season who is Dan Ballard.
The Rise of Dan Ballard
Dan Ballard, now 26, has emerged as a colossus for Sunderland in the Championship. The Northern Irish international, who joined Arsenal’s youth setup at 16, made just one senior appearance for the club before loans to Blackpool and Millwall honed his skills. His permanent move to Sunderland has proven transformative. This season, Ballard has anchored a defense that’s conceded the fewest goals in the league, boasting an impressive 92% pass accuracy and winning 68% of his aerial duels. Notably, he netted a stunning header against Arsenal in October, costing Mikel Arteta‘s side two vital points.
🔴⚪️🗣️ Sunderland director of football Florent Ghisolfi: "In terms of squad-building our attitude is to first improve the squad as individuals. Today when you see Dan Ballard, you understand. I can go to the market, all of them, I cannot find a Ballard."
"He is Sunderland —… pic.twitter.com/M24UPzKtAc
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) December 6, 2025
Jones’ Verdict
On Sports Illustrated FC, Jones didn’t mince words: “Dan Ballard, I think he’s been terrific this season… He has been a monster at the back for them.” In his lineup, Jones slotted Ballard alongside Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães, edging out Saliba for the spot. It’s high praise from a defender who won three Premier League titles, highlighting Ballard’s composure, tackling prowess, and leadership.
Saliba’s Elite but Interrupted Season
William Saliba, Arsenal’s £27 million signing from Saint-Étienne, has been pivotal in their title charge. The 25-year-old boasts a 7.8 Sofascore rating, contributing to the Premier League’s stingiest defense (just 18 goals conceded). Yet, a hamstring injury sidelined him for four games, exposing weaknesses. Jones acknowledges Saliba’s “dirty work” on set-pieces but argues Ballard’s consistency tips the scales.
Arsenal’s Regret? A Lesson in Talent Spotting
As Arsenal lead the table by four points with an 80% title probability per Opta, this oversight stings. The selling of Ballard for peanuts, while investing heavily in Saliba, underscores the risks of youth cypher. Could Ballard have complemented Gabriel? Fans ponder, but his Sunderland form suggests Arsenal missed a gem.
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