William Saliba – Arsenal

In the heart of Arsenal’s backline stands a towering figure who has quickly become one of the Premier League’s most formidable centre-backs. William Saliba, the French international, has transformed from a promising talent to an indispensable asset for the Gunners.

Since his long-awaited debut in the 2022-23 season, Saliba has not just lived up to the hype surrounding his transfer from Saint-Étienne in 2019 – he’s exceeded it. With his commanding presence, impeccable timing, and ability to initiate attacks from deep, Saliba embodies the modern defender that top clubs crave.

Let’s explore the journey that brought him to the Emirates, his impact on and off the pitch, and why as an Arsenal player, he’s become a fan favorite, complete with his own chant echoing through the stands.

What is William Saliba’s Age?

William Saliba is 23 years old. He was born on 24 March 2001.

As we explore aspects of his life and career, his age serves as a benchmark for evaluating his progress and achievements.

Where was William Saliba Born?

William Saliba was born in the historic commune of Bondy, France. He commenced a remarkable journey that would take him to the pinnacle of professional football.

Saliba’s football career began at AS Bondy when he was just seven years old, and his rapid progress led him to Saint-Étienne by 2016. His professional ascent accelerated markedly with his transfer to Arsenal in 2019.

Despite initial loan stints at Saint-Étienne and Nice, Saliba’s impact at Arsenal became evident in his second season, solidifying his position as one of the vital centre-backs in the English Premier League.

His impressive displays have also earned him recognition on the international stage, making his debut for France in 2022 and featuring prominently in their World Cup 2022 and Euro 2024 campaigns.

Today, Saliba continues to defy expectations, forging a powerfully impressive career that is sure to leave a lasting imprint on the football world.

What is William Saliba’s Arsenal Chant?

William Saliba’s impact on the pitch has resonated with Arsenal fans, who have created a chant in his honour set to the tune of ‘Tequila’ by The Champs.

This chant, which substitutes the original song’s chorus with ‘Saliba’, has become a staple at The Emirates, highlighting the centre-back’s growing popularity among the Gunners’ faithful.

As the chant continues to echo throughout stadiums, attention now turns to the monetary aspects of Saliba’s career, including his salary at Arsenal and his market value.

What is William Saliba’s Salary at Arsenal?

As Arsenal’s defensive stronghold, the French centre-back, William Saliba, earns a gross base salary of £190,000 per week, or £9,880,000 annually, in his current contract with the Premier League club.

This significant pay rise reflects his growing importance to Mikel Arteta’s team and his impressive performances on the pitch. The French centre-back has become an integral part of the team, contributing to the Gunners’ defence and occasional scoring prowess.

Signing a long-term contract in 2019, Saliba finalised a four-year extension worth £10 million per year, amounting to £192,000 weekly. This puts him among Arsenal’s top earners, ranked sixth in salary behind notable players like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Thomas Partey, and Bukayo Saka.

The substantial increase represents a significant upgrade from his previous £40,000 weekly wage. This handsome compensation is well-deserved, given his vital role in the team and his continued growth as a top-tier defender.

How Much is William Saliba’s Value in the Transfer Market?

Valued at €80 million in the transfer market, William Saliba’s market worth is a demonstration of his impressive defensive skills. This valuation ranks him among the top players globally, placing him at number 24 worldwide and fourth among French footballers. His value is significant in the Premier League, where he stands as the ninth-highest valued player, and at Arsenal FC, where he ranks fourth.

Saliba’s position as a centre-back is one of the main contributors to his high worth. He is currently ranked as the number one centre-back in the world, showcasing his dominance in the defensive position. Born in 2001, he also ranks third among all players of the same birth year.

Given his value and performance, Saliba is a crucial asset for Arsenal FC. His new contract extension, which sees his salary increase to £10 million per year, reflects his importance to the team. This significant rise in salary underlines the club’s commitment to retaining his talent and ensuring continuity in their defence.

What is William Saliba’s Arsenal Number?

William Saliba, a highly skilled centre-back for Arsenal, wears the number 2 shirt.

Since the 2023-2024 season, Saliba has firmly established himself in this position, showcasing his pace and elegance on the pitch.

This prominent number not only signifies his vital role in the team but also underscores his growth and determination within the club.

What Position Does William Saliba Play at Arsenal?

At Arsenal, France international William Saliba plays as a centre-back, wearing the shirt number 2. He is widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the world and has been instrumental in the Gunners’ title challenges.

Saliba is known for his exceptional ball recoveries and precise passing abilities, establishing himself as a mainstay of the team’s defence. Since his return from loan stints at Nice and Marseille, he has consistently impressed, earning multiple accolades and embodying the role of a modern defender.

In his second season of first-team action at Arsenal, Saliba became the first outfield player in the Premier League era to play every minute of the league season. His performances helped underpin the club’s title challenge until he suffered a season-ending back injury in March 2023.

The French player’s maturation into one of the Premier League’s top defenders represents a significant turnaround from his earlier days when he was subjected to scrutiny and criticism.

Saliba’s ability to combine defensive solidity with the initiative to start attacks has made him an indispensable asset for Arsenal, culminating in a rise to prominence in both club and international football.

His role as a versatile and skilled centre-back has solidified his position as an essential element in the Gunners’ pursuit of success.

What Makes the Saliba-Gabriel Duo So Effective for Arsenal?

The Saliba-Gabriel partnership has become one of the most effective defensive duos in the Premier League due to their complementary skills and strong communication. Their success stems from a combination of physical attributes, technical abilities and a deep understanding between the two players.

Both defenders are excellent on the ball, aerially dominant and constantly alert to danger. Whilst Saliba is known for his silky, composed presence, Gabriel Magalhaes provides a more fiery, combative style. This balance allows them to handle a variety of attacking threats effectively.

Communication plays a crucial role in their partnership. Gabriel revealed that they speak French on the pitch, which facilitates quick and clear instructions during matches. This linguistic connection has helped forge a strong bond between the two, with Saliba stating, “I love him, he loves me, so it’s easier to play.”

Their defensive prowess is evident in Arsenal’s impressive record. The Gunners have conceded the fewest goals in the Premier League 23/24 season, with Saliba and Gabriel playing a pivotal role in achieving a league-leading 18 clean sheets. Their ability to nullify even the most potent attacks has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s success.

Furthermore, both defenders contribute significantly in attack, particularly from set-pieces. Gabriel leads Premier League centre-backs in goals scored since 2020, whilst Saliba has also chipped in with important strikes. This attacking threat adds another dimension to their value for the team.

In essence, the Saliba-Gabriel partnership combines experience, complementary skills and strong communication to form what many consider to be the Premier League’s best defensive duo.

How Has White’s Transition to Right-Back Complemented Saliba’s Rise?

Ben White’s transition to right-back has significantly complemented William Saliba’s rise at Arsenal, creating a formidable defensive partnership. White’s versatility and willingness to adapt his game have allowed Saliba to flourish in his preferred centre-back position.

Initially signed as a centre-back, Ben White‘s move to right-back has provided Arsenal with a defensively solid and technically proficient player in that position. This shift has enabled Saliba to seamlessly integrate into the heart of defence alongside Gabriel, forming what has become one of the Premier League’s most robust centre-back pairings.

White’s ability to tuck inside and form a back three when Arsenal are in possession has given Saliba more freedom to showcase his ball-playing abilities. This tactical flexibility has been crucial in Arsenal’s build-up play, allowing them to maintain possession and progress the ball effectively from defence to attack.

Moreover, White’s defensive acumen and positional awareness have provided additional cover for Saliba, allowing the young Frenchman to develop his game without being overly exposed. This partnership has been instrumental in Arsenal boasting one of the best defensive records in the league, with both players complementing each other’s strengths and mitigating any weaknesses.

How Has Raya’s Arrival Complemented Saliba’s Defensive Prowess?

David Raya’s arrival has significantly complemented William Saliba’s defensive prowess at Arsenal, creating a formidable defensive partnership. The Spanish goalkeeper’s ability to command his area and distribute the ball effectively has provided a solid foundation for Saliba to build upon.

Raya’s excellent positioning and proactive approach to claiming crosses have reduced the pressure on Arsenal’s centre-backs, including Saliba. This allows the French defender to focus more on his positioning and anticipation, rather than constantly worrying about aerial threats in the box.

Furthermore, David Raya‘s comfort with the ball at his feet has improved Arsenal’s ability to play out from the back. This suits Saliba’s style perfectly, as he excels in building attacks from deep positions. The goalkeeper’s precise distribution enables Saliba to receive the ball in advantageous positions, facilitating Arsenal’s possession-based approach.

The pair’s communication and understanding have also been crucial. Raya’s vocal presence and ability to organise the defence complement Saliba’s calm and composed demeanour. Together, they have formed a defensive unit that has significantly contributed to Arsenal’s improved defensive record and their continued push for the Premier League title.

How Tall is William Saliba?

Measuring an impressive 1.92 m (192 cm / 6 ft 4 in) in height, William Saliba dons the number 2 shirt for Arsenal. This towering figure is not only a physical presence but also a dominant force on the pitch.

As a centre-back, his height and physique offer a significant advantage, allowing him to excel in aerial duels and defend with authority. His exceptional defensive skills, coupled with his proactive style of play, make him a valuable asset to the team.

Saliba’s journey with Arsenal began in 2022, after initially signing in 2019 and spending time on loan at Saint-Étienne, Nice, and Marseille. Despite an injury setback during the 2022-23 season, he demonstrated determination, signing a new long-term contract until 2028 and earning a vital role in Arsenal’s defence.

In the 2023-24 season, he made history as the first outfield player to complete every minute of a Premier League campaign, a proof of his endurance and commitment. Saliba’s impact on Arsenal’s performance has been substantial, and his stature has become synonymous with solid defensive play.

What Boots does William Saliba Wear at Arsenal?

When it comes to his on-pitch arsenal, William Saliba wears Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Emerald football boots, a demonstration of his commitment to performance and style. This choice underscores the French defender’s dedication to both comfort and control on the pitch.

The Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Emerald boots are designed for peak performance, boasting a FlyTouch Plus material for unparalleled ball control and a lightweight design enabling swift movements. Saliba’s selection is significant, especially given his role as a central defender where quick reactions and precision footwork are essential.

The combination of exceptional ball control and agility provided by the Tiempo Legend 10 Emerald boots aligns perfectly with Saliba’s exceptional skills as a centre-back. These boots, part of Nike’s high-end football footwear line, reflect Saliba’s focus on professional excellence, ensuring he is equipped to perform to the highest standards in the Premier League.

When Did William Saliba Join Arsenal?

William Saliba, the 23-year-old French centre-back, officially joined Arsenal in the summer transfer window of 2019. The club signed him from St Etienne for €30 million (£27 million) and promptly loaned him back to the French club for the 2019-20 season.

This strategic move allowed Saliba to continue his development at St Etienne, where he made 16 league appearances the previous season, before integrating into the Arsenal team.

When Saliba eventually returned to Arsenal, he made his long-awaited debut in the 2022-23 season, impressing from the start and becoming a vital part of the team’s title challenge. The defender’s rapid rise and impact are reflective of his potential, which the club recognised early on.

William Saliba Statistics at Arsenal

Who is William Saliba’s Wife/Girlfriend?

William Saliba, Arsenal’s impressive defender, has managed to keep his personal life largely private.

Despite his accomplishments on the pitch, details about his romantic life, including a wife or girlfriend, remain unknown.

This has led fans and media to focus more intently on his professional career and intriguing aspects like his famous haircut and social media presence.

What is William Saliba’s Famous Haircut?

William Saliba’s famous haircut was his distinctive ginger curls, which he sported early in his Arsenal career. However, the French defender has since opted for a more clean-cut look, shaving off his curly locks.

In 2020, ahead of his first season with Arsenal’s first team, Saliba made headlines by dramatically changing his hairstyle. The young centre-back ditched his recognisable ginger curls for a short, cropped style. This transformation garnered significant attention from Arsenal supporters, who were eager to see their new signing in action.

Fans reacted positively to Saliba’s new look, with many commenting that it gave him a more mature and professional appearance. Some supporters even joked that his “trim is no nonsense”, hoping it would translate to solid defensive performances on the pitch.

Whilst Saliba’s curly hair was once his trademark, his current short style has become equally associated with his commanding presence in Arsenal’s backline. The change in hairstyle seemed to mark a new chapter in Saliba’s career as he established himself as a key player for the Gunners.

What is William Saliba’s Instagram Account?

William Saliba’s official Instagram account is @w.saliba4. This verified account serves as the Arsenal defender’s primary platform for connecting with fans and sharing glimpses of his professional and personal life.

On his Instagram, Saliba regularly posts content related to his football career, including match highlights, training sessions, and behind-the-scenes moments with his Arsenal teammates. He also shares updates about his involvement with the French national team, giving fans insight into his international career.

Whilst Saliba tends to keep his personal life relatively private, his Instagram occasionally offers glimpses into his off-field activities and interests. The account has gained considerable popularity since his breakthrough at Arsenal.

Supporters appreciate his performances for the club and his dedication to engaging with fans through social media.