Mikel Arteta Lauds William Saliba Ahead of New Deal Confirmation

Mikel Arteta hails William Saliba impact at Arsenal as the defender edges closer to a new deal that will secure his future and boost the club’s ambitions.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised William Saliba, calling the French defender “instrumental” to the club’s recent success, the 24-year-old centre-back is now close to agreeing a new long-term deal with the Gunners, a move that will strengthen Arsenal’s ambitions for the future.

William Saliba joined Arsenal in 2019 but had to wait for his breakthrough. After several loan spells, he finally established himself in the 2022/23 season. Since then, he has become a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI.

His partnership with Gabriel Magalhães has developed into one of the strongest defensive pairings in European football. Together, they have provided Arsenal with the stability and resilience needed to compete at the highest level.

Arteta praised Saliba’s progress, saying:
“It’s very impressive what he’s done at his age because sometimes we tend to forget. His consistency, the way he’s matured, and his growth in the team have been pivotal.”

New Contract on the Horizon

Saliba’s current deal runs until 2027, but Arsenal are pushing to extend his stay further. According to reports, a new five-year contract is nearing completion, despite strong interest from Real Madrid.

Arteta sounded confident about the deal, stating:
“Hopefully it will be everybody in the world, Arsenal included, reporting it very soon. That’s what I’m hoping.”

The Arsenal boss stressed the importance of players feeling motivated and valued at the club. “It’s great to see players so driven to be here. That shows they are happy, they feel valued, and they see this as the best place to fulfil their ambitions,” he said.

Saliba has already shown his commitment to Arsenal by rejecting outside interest. Arteta revealed:
“When I sat down with William and asked him the question, he said: ‘No, I want to stay here, I want to play for you, and I’m very happy.’ That was great to hear.”

Arsenal face Newcastle next in the Premier League, a fixture where they have often struggled at St. James’ Park. With Liverpool five points ahead, Arteta will rely on Saliba’s defensive quality to help close the gap in the title race.

The confirmation of Saliba’s new contract will not only secure one of Arsenal’s most important players but also underline the club’s intent to challenge for major trophies in the coming years.

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