TNT Sports pundit Rio Ferdinand has drawn comparisons between himself and Arsenal centre-back William Saliba.
Speaking on his FIVE podcast, Ferdinand said that he was very impressed with the 22-year-old’s performance against Newcastle, despite the Gunners losing the game 1-0. The former Manchester United defender claimed there was even one moment where he thought he was watching himself play:
“He was unreal. He played well, he done a bit of skill as well and I thought ‘that reminds me of myself’! It was nice.”
Anyone who saw Ferdinand play during his prime will know how much of a compliment that is for Saliba.
The Frenchman has had an outstanding start to the campaign and there is no doubting the fact that, if Mikel Arteta’s side are to have a successful campaign, keeping him fit will be essential.
Saliba has only been a first-team regular for a relatively short period of time
It’s hard to believe that, before the start of last season, the centre-half hadn’t even made his first-team debut for Arsenal.
Arteta had sent Saliba out on loan to the likes of Nice and Marseille in order to develop his game, and there was even speculation last year that Saliba could leave the Emirates. However, things have changed so quickly over the course of the last 16 months.
He is one of the first names on the Arsenal teamsheet
Since making his first appearance for the Gunners against Crystal Palace in August 2022, Saliba has racked up 48 appearances.
The London club have won 32 of those matches, which gives the defender a 66.7% win percentage when he plays. If he can keep up that excellent record, it should allow Arteta’s men to be consistent challengers for trophies.
