WILLIAM Saliba is hoping to become the best defender in the world at Arsenal.
The France centre-back says he signed a new five-year contract at the club because head coach Mikel Arteta can help him “become the best” defender in the world.
The 24-year-old Saliba’s previous deal was scheduled to expire in June 2027 and speculation had linked him with a potential switch to Real Madrid.
“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 the Gunners from Ligue 1 club Saint-Etienne in July 2019 and after two loan spells back in France established himself as a key member of the side, making 105 league appearances.
He says he had his doubts whether he would be given a chance in the English Premier League.
“When I didn’t play for six months and got sent out on loan, of course I had some doubts,” Saliba adds.
“I thought maybe I would never play for this club but I told myself that I could not leave this club without playing.
“I didn’t give up. I went out on loan, I played some games, I came back here and I started playing in almost every game. I’m proud of myself for not ever giving up.”
Saliba’s partner in the heart of Arsenal’s defence, Gabriel, also extended his contract up to 2029 in June.