Arsenal icon Ray Parlour has predicted that William Saliba “could become a club legend” if he stays at the Emirates for long enough.
The Frenchman has been outstanding since breaking into the team at the start of last season and, speaking to NetBet Sports Betting, Parlour said that the sky really is the limit for the player:
“William Saliba is currently the best young defender in the world and can go on to be the best defender in the world. He has everything to get better and better. I remember Tony Adams when he was young – he might make quite a few mistakes, but he always seemed to rectify them. Saliba’s got his opportunity now and he’s not let anybody down – Arsenal are very lucky to have him and he could become a club legend.”
“You never know in football these days what happens in people moving on, but he has a good contract at Arsenal and I hope he is with the club for many years. If you’re going to win titles, you definitely need a good defence and a good understanding at the back, and he’s certainly part of that. I’m just hoping he stays as long as possible and improves like he has done.”
Saliba has been in imperious form
After missing the last few months of last season with a back injury, many felt that the defender may need some time to recover his best form. However, from the Community Shield and onwards, Saliba has been very impressive.
The 22-year-old has looked commanding both with and without the ball, winning his fair share of duels, and distributing some pinpoint accurate passes. There were some concerns regarding a toe injury which sidelined him during the October international break but he seems to be back to 100% now.
He has committed his long-term future to Arsenal
Saliba’s chances of becoming a club legend have also increased after he signed a new four-year contract with the Gunners back in July.
Securing the defender’s services for the long term was one of the best pieces of business the club did over the summer, especially after seeing his performances in recent months.
