William Saliba has all the attributed to becoming a key part of Mikel Arteta defense squad for years to come.
The 2020/21 is the majorly awaited season as Arsenal supporters can’t wait to have their first glimpse on William Saliba playing in the Arsenal jersey.
Signed from Saint-Etienne last July in a deal worth £27 million, the 19-year-old returned on loan to Ligue 1 side to proceed with his development.
Earning rave reviews since bursting onto the scene for the French club in 2018, the physically imposing centre-back has all the attribute required to become a key part of Arteta’s defense in years ahead.
Plenty of Arsenal fans have kept an eye on the Frenchman’s performance for St-Etienne this season. Probably, they will have been very impressed by what they’ve seen from the youngster.
However, hamstring and metatarsal injuries have unfortunately restricted his appearances this term. Nonetheless, Saliba has proven his worth when he has played.
How impactful is Saliba?
You only have to look at Saint-Etienne’s record with and without Saliba in the team to see how good he is despite his tender years.
The Ligue 1 side won just one of their first seven league games, conceding 12 goals in the process with no clean sheets.
The return of the French U20 international then coincided with an upturn in form at the back as they kept three shutouts in the first four games Saliba started.
Saliba made a massive difference upon his comeback. But, what has helped him during his short career so far is he has been awarded the chance to develop.
With former manager Jean-Louis Gasset playing a major role, Saint-Etienne veteran Loic Perrin has proved pivotal to his progression.