AfriPulse
Arsenal defender William Saliba has pledged his long-term future to the club after signing a new five-year contract, saying he believes Mikel Arteta and his coaching staff can help him reach the very top of world football.
William Saliba, 24, whose previous deal was due to run until June 2027, had been linked with a move to Real Madrid. But he made it clear that his development under Arteta was a decisive factor in his decision to extend his stay in north London.
“The boss is one of the best coaches in the world,” Saliba said. “He has helped me a lot, him and his staff, so I’m so happy to have them as a coach. I’m 24 now, and I think I haven’t reached my peak. I have a lot of things to improve, a lot of things to give to this team, and I know that the coach and the staff will help me to become the best, or one of the best, defenders in the world and win trophies.”
Saliba joined Arsenal from Saint-Etienne in 2019 but spent time on loan at Nice and Marseille before breaking into Arteta’s first team in 2022. Since then, he has made 105 Premier League appearances, scoring six goals and providing two assists, quickly becoming one of the cornerstones of the Gunners’ defence.
Arteta hailed the French international’s progress and his bond with the club. “Since joining us, William has grown so much, embraced responsibility, and has created a strong connection with our supporters and everyone at the club. We know there is still so much to come from him and will continue to work together to keep improving with the clear ambition of winning major trophies.”
Saliba’s commitment follows fellow centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes, who signed a new contract earlier this year keeping him at the Emirates until 2029. His extension comes just days after Arsenal’s dramatic late win at Newcastle, which lifted the Gunners to second in the Premier League, two points behind leaders Liverpool.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta was equally full of praise: “In the last three seasons, William has become an incredible defender whose composure, intelligence and physical presence make him one of the best in the world. He will continue his development with Arsenal to reach new heights.”
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