William Saliba Praise Sergio Ramos as the Greatest Defender in Football History

William Saliba praise Sergio Ramos shows defender’s respect for football icons and desire to reach elite status in the Premier League.

William Saliba praise Sergio Ramos as the “best defender in history,”. The Arsenal center-back continues to impress in the Premier League and openly credits Ramos’ legacy for inspiring his own growth as a player.

Saliba admired Ramos’ achievements during his 16-year spell at Real Madrid, where the Spaniard won five La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies. Known for his aggressive style, leadership, and clutch performances, Ramos also played a key role in Spain’s golden era, winning the World Cup and two European Championships.

Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop

Arsenal 2025–26 Home Kit

Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.

Saliba recalled facing Ramos during Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Sevilla last season. “I wanted his shirt, but Gabriel also wanted it so badly. So I gave it to Gabriel,” Saliba said. “For me, he’s the best in history. And there are some others, like Van Dijk for me, who is unbelievable”.

Saliba Highlights Van Dijk’s Dominance in the Premier League

In addition to praising Ramos, Saliba reserved special admiration for Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk. He called the Dutchman “the best in the world right now,” citing his consistency, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game.

Saliba praise Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos has been an inspiration to many young defenders. (Photo by Burak Akbulut/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

“Van Dijk’s consistency is unreal,” Saliba remarked. “His aerial dominance, positioning, and ability to read the game are incredible.” Saliba has faced Van Dijk on the pitch and views those encounters as valuable learning experiences.

Van Dijk transformed Liverpool’s defense after joining in 2018, helping the club win the 2019 Champions League and the 2020 Premier League title. His reputation as one of the toughest defenders to beat one-on-one continues to grow.

Saliba’s praise for Ramos and Van Dijk reflects his respect for elite defenders and his desire to reach their level. As he continues to develop under Mikel Arteta, Saliba draws inspiration from legends while carving out his own path at Arsenal.

Leave your vote

Author

  • arsenaltalks

    Your daily dose of independent Arsenal news, transfer updates, and match insights — all in one place. Built for true fans, by a true fan. COYG!

Want more Arsenal updates? Visit our homepage.

All links on ArsenalTalks Shop are affiliate links. We may earn commissions that support our content—at no extra cost to you. Read our full Affiliate Disclosure for more information.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings

    Log In

    Forgot password?

    Forgot password?

    Enter your account data and we will send you a link to reset your password.

    Your password reset link appears to be invalid or expired.

    Log in

    Privacy Policy

    Add to Collection

    No Collections

    Here you'll find all collections you've created before.

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.