Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has waxed lyrical about fellow Frenchman William Saliba after being impressed together with his performances for the Gunners this season.
Arsenal continued their nice begin to the season with a 3-1 win in opposition to north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on the weekend. They now sit atop the Premier League desk with 21 factors from eight matches.
Saliba’s performances in protection have been integral to the Gunners’ type thus far this marketing campaign. He has helped the group maintain three clear sheets within the league, whereas additionally contributing to as many objectives.
The centre-back joined the north London giants in 2019, however spent the final three seasons on mortgage in France. He was ready to depart the membership completely if he was not assured common enjoying time upon returning in the summertime.
Nonetheless, Mikel Arteta has since proven his belief in Saliba by making him an everyday starter for his group. The Spaniard is already reaping the rewards of his choice because the 21-year-old continues to impress for Arsenal.
Assessing Saliba’s shows this season, Petit identified how the defender had considerations about his enjoying time with Arsenal. The previous Gunners midfielder went on to say that the teen has stabilized Arteta’s backline. He instructed Premier League Productions [via HITC]:
“He made a giant impression again in France when he was enjoying in Marseille. He has additionally earned his France caps with the nationwide group as a result of he was sensible all season.”
“I feel he got here again to the membership, he wasn’t certain Arteta needed him to play him and he needed some ensures. He has proven maturity for the final two seasons and management in the course of the protection. He performed properly, that’s a very powerful.”
“He has grown up as an individual and a soccer participant. I feel he has taken extra accountability and he has proven extra confidence as properly – Saliba has stabilized the protection and they’re getting extra confidence.”
Arsenal face Liverpool within the Premier League subsequent
Having crushed Tottenham, Arsenal will now flip their consideration in the direction of their upcoming UEFA Europa League sport. They’re scheduled to lock horns with Bodo/Glimt on Thursday (October 6).
The Gunners will then return to motion within the Premier League on Sunday (October 9). They may tackle final season’s runner-up Liverpool, who’re but to win away from residence within the league this time period, on the Emirates Stadium.