Saliba, despite signing for Arsenal in 2019, was made to wait until 2022/23 to make a competitive appearance for the Gunners.
Instead, the stopper was loaned out on three occasions, most recently plying his trade in France with Marseille.
And though he lacked some experience, Saliba was a key cog in Marseille’s backline, who boasted one of the best defensive records in Ligue 1 last term.
Before that, Saliba spent time on loan with Nice and his last permanent club before Arsenal, Saint Etienne.
Now, after firmly cementing himself in Mikel Arteta’s plans, Saliba has become a key cog in Arsenal’s backline.
Ben White has been moved to right-back, allowing Saliba and Gabriel to form an excellent partnership in the centre.
Among 231 players that have contested at least 20 duels in the Premier League in October, only two recorded a duel success rate of 75% or higher — William Saliba (78.6%) and Virgil van Dijk (75.0%).
Such prolific form is bound to attract attention, though, and that is already happening with Saliba.
Spanish outlet Fichajes report that Atletico Madrid have a ‘massive problem’ at centre-back with Felipe, Stefan Savic, Jose Maria Gimenez ‘not at the level expected of them’.
It is added that Simeone’s side have been known for having a solid defence in the past but they now need to ‘reinforce’ their backline and the report lists three players who are admired by Atletico Madrid, and Saliba is among them.
However, Saliba is said to be considered untouchable by Mikel Arteta.
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