Saliba Admits Arsenal Dominance Over Chelsea Feels Like Revenge

William Saliba says Arsenal wins over Chelsea feel personal, revealing his motivation comes from the 2022 World Cup heartbreak.

William Saliba admits that every victory Arsenal earn over Chelsea feels personal, especially when facing Enzo Fernández. The French defender, now a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, says his extra motivation stems from Argentina’s World Cup victory over France in 2022, a moment that still fuels his desire for “revenge.”

The admission highlights how Saliba’s competitive spirit extends beyond domestic football. For him, Arsenal’s dominance over Chelsea has been more than just about points — it’s been about redemption.

A World Cup Wound That Still Stings

During the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Argentina, led by Lionel Messi and featuring Enzo Fernández, defeated France in a dramatic penalty shootout. Although Saliba didn’t play in the final, the loss left a mark.

Fernández’s standout performances earned him the Best Young Player award and a record-breaking £107 million move to Chelsea in February 2023, paving the way for a new Premier League rivalry.

Since Fernández joined Chelsea, Arsenal has dominated their London rivals, going unbeaten in five consecutive Premier League games, with three wins and two draws.

Saliba, who featured in all five matches, proudly noted his personal record against the Argentine:

Speaking to RMC Sport, Saliba said “So far, I haven’t lost to Enzo Fernández with Chelsea. So yes, I’ve had revenge with Arsenal over Chelsea.”

The Frenchman added that every victory carries emotional weight:

“When a team beats you, the only thing you want is to play them again. If we do things well and qualify, we’ll have our chance to get revenge.”

Arsenal’s Resurgence and Saliba’s Rise

Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have flipped the script in London derbies. Once overshadowed by Chelsea’s dominance, the Gunners have now lost just one of their last 12 meetings with the Blues.

Saliba has been at the center of this transformation, progressing from a promising loanee to one of Europe’s top defenders. His composure, power, and tactical awareness have earned him a long-term contract and a spot among Arsenal’s highest earners.

Arteta has repeatedly praised his young star, calling him “a leader at the back” and “one of the most reliable defenders in world football.”

The rivalry between William Saliba and Enzo Fernández is far from over. Arsenal are set to face Chelsea again on November 30, 2025, in what promises to be another heated clash.

Off the pitch, Saliba will soon rejoin the French national team for World Cup qualifiers, hoping to secure a spot in the 2026 tournament — and possibly face Argentina once more.

Though Saliba insists that victory comes first, he admits that defeating Fernández, whether in the Premier League or on the international stage, gives him an extra sense of personal triumph.

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