Arsenal star William Saliba gives honest take on ‘best centre-back in the world’ praise ahead of Champions League clash with PSG
As Arsenal prepare for a titanic Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, their defensive rock William Saliba has delivered a refreshingly honest take on the labels being thrown his way. Despite growing recognition, the Arsenal star remains grounded — and that’s just part of why he’s become one of the most talked-about defenders in world football.
William Saliba keeping his feet on the ground as Arsenal gear up for PSG clash
Over the past two seasons, William Saliba has evolved from a promising talent into one of the most dominant centre-backs in the Premier League. Since finally breaking into Mikel Arteta’s starting XI on a regular basis, the Frenchman has formed a rock-solid partnership with Gabriel Magalhães, giving Arsenal a platform to challenge for major honours at home and abroad.
Now 24 years old, Saliba is widely regarded as one of the best in the business. His anticipation, strength in duels, and calmness under pressure have caught the eye not just in England but across Europe. As Arsenal fans dream of a first Champions League final since 2006, much of that hope rests on the shoulders of their elegant No.2.
Yet, when asked about the growing buzz surrounding his performances, Saliba chose humility over hype.
“I think I am one of the best, but not yet the best defender in the world,” he told Telefoot. “I can still become much better one day, I hope to improve.”
That mindset — striving for more, refusing to settle — is precisely what separates good players from great ones.
Arsenal star William Saliba stands out but insists there’s more to come
Nottingham Forest FC v Arsenal FC – Premier League
Arsenal’s defensive record this season speaks volumes. With Saliba at the heart of the backline, the Gunners have conceded fewer goals than any other side in the Premier League. Their solidity has been crucial in a title race that’s gone down to the wire and in a European campaign that has reignited dreams in north London.
But for Saliba, personal accolades are secondary to the team’s ambitions.
“I know people say nice things about me,” he said. “Of course, it’s good to hear. But football moves fast. One day you are the best, the next people forget. I just want to stay focused, keep improving, and help my team win.”
It’s easy to see why Arteta rates him so highly. Saliba’s reading of the game is elite, his composure is rare, and his ability to build attacks from the back fits perfectly into Arsenal’s philosophy. And yet, listening to him speak, you sense a player who still sees a mountain to climb.
Facing his hometown club: extra motivation for Saliba
Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final first leg at the Emirates carries extra significance for Saliba. Born in Bondy, a suburb of Paris, the Arsenal defender grew up dreaming of making it big — and now he faces PSG, the giants from his backyard, on Europe’s biggest stage.
It’s not the first time he’s come up against his hometown club. Saliba has played PSG four times before, although victory has come just once — a 2-0 group stage win back in October.
There’s no bitterness when he talks about PSG — just the quiet focus of a player who knows what’s at stake.
“Of course, it’s special,” he admitted. “Paris is where I’m from. I have friends who are PSG fans. But once we are on the pitch, there are no friends. I am with Arsenal, and I will give everything to help us win.”
It’s the kind of mentality that has made him a cornerstone of Arteta’s project.
Best centre-back in the world? Saliba in elite company
When you talk about the best centre-backs in the world right now, several names crop up. Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, despite a few injury setbacks, remains an imposing figure. Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao have been immense for Real Madrid, especially during their run to last season’s Champions League title.
Yet Saliba’s name is increasingly mentioned in the same breath — and rightly so.
This season, his consistency has been remarkable. He’s rarely caught out of position, he dominates one-on-one battles, and his progressive passing has become a vital weapon in Arsenal’s attacking build-up. Statistically, he’s right up there with the very best.
But for Saliba, the job is far from done.
“I look at players like Van Dijk or Sergio Ramos in their prime,” he said. “They were at the top for many years. That’s what I want — not just one good season, but to stay at the top for a long time.”
What’s next for William Saliba and Arsenal?
The focus now is simple: Paris Saint-Germain. Arsenal’s clash with the French champions on Tuesday could define their season — and maybe shape Saliba’s career trajectory even further.
The Gunners had the weekend off to prepare, with Arteta giving his squad a chance to recharge their batteries before the massive showdown. After PSG, attention will quickly turn back to the Premier League title race. But for now, everything is about the Champions League.
Saliba knows what it would mean to lift that famous trophy — especially at the expense of his hometown team.
“It would be a dream,” he smiled. “But first we have to win. Nothing is decided yet.”
If Arsenal are to reach the final, they will need Saliba at his commanding best. Judging by his attitude and form, they wouldn’t want anyone else leading the line.
There are no comments yet. Be the first to comment!