William Saliba Biography, Stats, Age, Clubs, Goals, Playing Style & Personal Life
Discover William Saliba’s full biography, career stats, goals, clubs, age, playing style, personal life, and future projections. Learn about his achievements, international career, and potential Real Madrid transfer.
William Saliba is one of the most promising young defenders in world football, known for his composure, tactical intelligence, and physical presence on the field. Born in Marseille, France, Saliba has quickly risen through the ranks to establish himself as a key player for both club and country. His journey from local youth academies to top European football highlights a combination of natural talent, discipline, and perseverance that sets him apart from his peers.
Currently a part of Arsenal Football Club, Saliba has impressed fans and critics alike with his performances in the Premier League and European competitions. His defensive skills, including timely tackles, precise interceptions, and aerial dominance, have made him a crucial component of his team’s backline. Beyond his technical abilities, Saliba’s professionalism and maturity have drawn praise from managers, teammates, and football pundits, reflecting his potential to become one of the world’s elite defenders.
Saliba’s career is also notable for his international contributions, representing France at various youth levels and making strides toward senior national team inclusion. Off the pitch, he maintains a disciplined lifestyle, supported by his family and personal values, which has helped him navigate the pressures of professional football.
This biography will explore William Saliba’s age, family, career journey, stats, personal life, achievements, and future projections, providing a comprehensive look at the defender’s life both on and off the field.
William Saliba Age & Early Life
William Saliba was born on March 24, 2001, in Marseille, France, making him 24 years old as of 2025. Growing up in the vibrant city of Marseille, he was introduced to football at a very young age, a sport that would soon define his life. From his earliest days, Saliba showed remarkable athleticism, discipline, and a natural understanding of the game, traits that would become the foundation of his professional career.
Saliba’s childhood was heavily influenced by his family, who encouraged his passion for football while emphasizing education and personal development. He joined local youth clubs in Marseille, where coaches quickly noticed his defensive capabilities and leadership potential on the pitch. Even as a young player, Saliba exhibited composure beyond his years, reading the game intelligently and positioning himself effectively to intercept attacks—a skill that remains one of his trademarks today.
By his early teens, Saliba’s talent was evident, and he earned a place in the Saint-Étienne youth academy, one of France’s respected development programs. Here, he honed his technical skills, tactical awareness, and physical attributes, learning from experienced coaches and competing against some of the best young talents in the country. His performance in youth tournaments and national competitions drew attention from scouts across Europe, highlighting his potential to succeed at the highest levels.
Saliba’s early life is also marked by his cultural and personal values. Growing up in a family of Nigerian descent, he embraced a strong sense of community, discipline, and faith, which has shaped his character both on and off the pitch. These formative years in Marseille not only refined his football skills but also instilled resilience, humility, and a professional mindset, laying the groundwork for a successful career in Europe’s elite football leagues.
William Saliba Family Background & Parents
William Saliba’s family has played a crucial role in shaping the player he is today. Born to Nigerian-French parents in Marseille, Saliba grew up in a household that valued discipline, hard work, and education alongside football. His father, in particular, has been a guiding figure, instilling in him a strong sense of responsibility and resilience that continues to influence his career choices and professionalism on the field.
Saliba’s father has always been a source of support, attending his early matches and encouraging him to pursue his football dreams while emphasizing the importance of humility. This influence helped Saliba maintain a balanced perspective despite the pressures that come with being a highly-rated young footballer. His father’s guidance was instrumental during critical moments, such as his move from Saint-Étienne to Arsenal and navigating loan spells in France.
His mother, equally supportive, provided stability and emotional grounding, ensuring that William could focus on football while maintaining a normal upbringing. She encouraged him to respect coaches, teammates, and competitors, cultivating a mindset that blends competitiveness with sportsmanship—a quality that is evident in Saliba’s calm and composed style of play.
Saliba’s Nigerian heritage also plays an important role in his identity. His family maintained cultural traditions and values that emphasize respect, perseverance, and faith. This cultural background has contributed to his character, helping him handle both praise and criticism with maturity.
Although Saliba is now a global football star, he maintains close ties with his family, regularly visiting them and crediting them in interviews for his success. Their unwavering support has been a cornerstone of his career, providing both motivation and a sense of grounding amid the challenges and opportunities of professional football.
William Saliba Religion & Personal Beliefs
William Saliba’s personal beliefs and faith have been an integral part of his life, guiding his behavior, discipline, and approach to professional football. Raised in a family with strong cultural and religious values, Saliba embraces his faith as a source of strength and grounding. While he keeps his religious practices largely private, it is clear that spirituality influences both his personal life and professional mindset.
Saliba’s religion has helped him develop mental resilience—a crucial quality for a young athlete navigating the pressures of top-tier football. His calm demeanor on the pitch, even during high-stakes matches, reflects a disciplined approach likely shaped by his spiritual grounding. It provides him with a sense of balance, helping him stay focused on performance while maintaining humility in success and perseverance in adversity.
Beyond mental strength, Saliba’s faith also plays a role in his off-field character. His respect for coaches, teammates, and opponents is often attributed to the values instilled by his family and belief system. These principles help him maintain a professional and grounded image, despite being thrust into the global spotlight at a young age.
Saliba has also subtly expressed his values through his interactions with fans and the community. He participates in charitable initiatives, engages positively with young supporters, and uses his platform to set an example for aspiring athletes. This alignment of faith, character, and responsibility highlights the maturity that sets him apart from other players in his age group.
In summary, William Saliba’s religion and personal beliefs are more than just aspects of his private life—they are central to his discipline, professionalism, and personal development, contributing to his growth as both a footballer and an individual.
William Saliba Football Journey: Youth Academy to Professional Debut
William Saliba’s football journey began in the youth academies of Marseille, where his talent quickly stood out. From a young age, he demonstrated exceptional defensive awareness, physical strength, and composure that set him apart from his peers. These attributes caught the attention of professional scouts, paving the way for his entry into one of France’s most respected development programs.
At the age of 13, Saliba joined the Saint-Étienne youth academy, a key step in his football development. Here, he refined his technical skills, tactical understanding, and physical conditioning under the guidance of experienced coaches. His time in the academy allowed him to compete against some of France’s best young talents, enhancing his game intelligence and adaptability. Saliba’s leadership qualities also began to emerge, as he often marshaled the defense and guided teammates during youth matches.
Saliba’s consistent performances earned him a promotion to Saint-Étienne’s senior team, making his professional debut in the Ligue 1 at just 18 years old. His debut showcased not only his defensive solidity but also his confidence in handling high-pressure situations. Quickly becoming a regular starter, Saliba demonstrated maturity beyond his years, earning praise for his positioning, anticipation, and ability to read the game.
His impressive performances did not go unnoticed. Clubs across Europe, particularly in the Premier League, observed his rapid development. This recognition culminated in his transfer to Arsenal, though he spent time on loan at French clubs to gain experience and consistent playing time. These strategic loan spells allowed Saliba to continue his growth, returning to Arsenal as a more complete and confident defender ready for elite-level football.
Saliba’s journey from youth academies to professional football exemplifies discipline, resilience, and exceptional talent, laying the foundation for his current and future successes in European football.
William Saliba Dates Joined Clubs & Transfer History
William Saliba’s professional career has been marked by strategic moves that have contributed significantly to his development as a world-class defender. After emerging through the Saint-Étienne youth academy, Saliba made his professional debut for the senior team in August 2018 at just 17 years old. His early performances in Ligue 1 immediately showcased his defensive prowess, composure, and ability to read the game, earning him recognition from top European clubs.
In July 2019, Arsenal officially signed Saliba from Saint-Étienne, a transfer that reflected the club’s long-term vision of strengthening their defense with young talent. Despite signing for the Premier League side, he remained on loan at Saint-Étienne for the 2019–2020 season, allowing him to continue gaining valuable first-team experience. During this period, Saliba’s performances were exceptional, drawing attention from both Arsenal supporters and international scouts, highlighting his readiness for elite football.
Following his return to Arsenal, Saliba embarked on additional loan spells to ensure consistent playing time and development. He spent the 2020–2021 season on loan at Nice, where he impressed in Ligue 1 with his defensive solidity and leadership. The following season, he joined Marseille on loan, further honing his skills, including ball distribution, positioning, and aerial dominance. These carefully managed loan spells provided Saliba with crucial experience against top-level competition, preparing him for the demands of the Premier League.
Saliba officially joined Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2022–2023 season, finally making his Premier League debut. Since then, he has established himself as a reliable central defender, contributing to clean sheets, defensive organization, and even attacking set-piece opportunities.
In summary, Saliba’s club transfers and loan history illustrate a well-planned career trajectory, blending steady development with strategic exposure to competitive leagues, laying the groundwork for his eventual rise as a top defender in Europe.
William Saliba Current Club & Real Madrid Rumors
William Saliba currently plays as a central defender for Arsenal FC, where he has become one of the most important players in the squad. Since officially breaking into the first team during the 2022–2023 Premier League season, Saliba has been praised for his calmness under pressure, his elite ball distribution, and his physical dominance. His partnership with Gabriel Magalhães transformed Arsenal’s defensive structure and contributed to the club’s rise back to Premier League title contention under Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal considers Saliba a core part of their long-term project, and his performances have earned him comparisons to some of Europe’s finest defenders. His ability to read the game, combined with his maturity at such a young age, has made him nearly indispensable to the team’s defensive setup. As a result, Arsenal offered him a new contract, reflecting his value and importance to the squad’s future ambitions.
Despite his strong commitment to Arsenal, rumors linking Saliba to Real Madrid have grown in recent years. Real Madrid, known for targeting the world’s best defensive talents, have reportedly monitored Saliba closely. With the Spanish giants rebuilding their backline and preparing for life after veterans like David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger, Saliba naturally fits the profile of a young, world-class defender with long-term potential.
Media outlets and transfer analysts frequently compare Saliba to Real Madrid legends due to his style of play—graceful on the ball yet powerful in duels. However, as of now, there is no official transfer agreement, and Arsenal remains firm about keeping him. The player himself has expressed satisfaction with his development at Arsenal, suggesting that his immediate future is with the club.
Overall, the Real Madrid rumors highlight Saliba’s rising status in world football, but for now, he continues to shine in North London, committed to Arsenal’s project and success.
William Saliba Stats: Club & International Performance
William Saliba’s rise to world-class status is reflected clearly in his club and international statistics, which show remarkable consistency, maturity, and efficiency for a defender of his age. Saliba is not the type of player who dazzles with flashy numbers like attackers do; instead, his stats highlight elite defensive intelligence, positional awareness, and technical elegance on the ball.
Club Stats (Arsenal & Loan Clubs)
After signing for Arsenal in 2019, Saliba spent several seasons on loan in France before becoming a mainstay in the Premier League. His standout loan spell at Olympique Marseille (2021–2022) saw him earn the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year award, cementing his reputation across Europe. He completed some of the highest pass completion percentages in the league—often above 90%—and ranked among the best defenders in terms of interceptions, forward passes, and defensive duels won.
Since returning to Arsenal, Saliba has maintained elite numbers:
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Pass accuracy: regularly between 91–93%
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Progressive passes: among the top Premier League center-backs
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Duels won: consistently above 60%
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Errors leading to goals: extremely rare
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Touches per game: often one of the highest in the squad due to Arsenal’s build-up system
These metrics show why he is considered one of the most secure defenders in possession and a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defensive strategy.
International Stats (France National Team)
Saliba has also become a growing presence in the French national team, competing for a spot among world-class defenders such as Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konaté. His international performances are marked by calm, mistake-free defending. While he is not yet a guaranteed starter for France, his appearances have steadily increased, and he is expected to be a long-term figure in the squad, possibly becoming a defensive leader for the country.
Overall, Saliba’s statistics confirm what fans and analysts see on the pitch: a technically gifted, tactically intelligent center-back who is already performing at an elite level and is still improving.
William Saliba Height, Physical Profile & Playing Style
William Saliba’s physical profile is one of the key elements that make him a world-class defender. Standing at 1.92m (6 feet 4 inches), Saliba possesses the ideal height for a modern center-back. His tall frame gives him a natural advantage in aerial duels, while his long strides allow him to recover quickly even against fast attackers. Despite his size, he moves with unusual grace—his mobility and balance are often compared to that of a midfielder rather than a traditional defender.
Beyond height, Saliba’s physique is defined by strength, refined coordination, and exceptional athletic discipline. He maintains an impressive level of fitness, which helps him stay consistent throughout long seasons. His ability to shield the ball under pressure, hold off attackers, and win shoulder-to-shoulder duels makes him one of the most difficult defenders to beat physically in Europe. Even strikers known for their power struggle to dominate him.
Playing Style
Saliba’s style is a blend of composure, intelligence, and elegance. Unlike many defenders who rely heavily on tackles, Saliba prefers anticipation. He reads the game early, positions himself perfectly, and intercepts passes before danger develops. This proactive style reduces the need for risky defensive challenges.
On the ball, Saliba is calm and technically assured. He frequently starts Arsenal’s build-up play, breaking lines with accurate progressive passes. His comfort under pressure allows Arsenal to maintain possession even when opponents press aggressively.
William Saliba Goals, Notable Matches & Achievements
Although William Saliba is primarily a central defender, his goal contributions—both at club and international level—show his growing confidence and evolving presence in the final third. As a defender, Saliba is not expected to produce high goal numbers, but he has scored several memorable goals that underline his aerial ability and composure inside the box. His first Premier League goal for Arsenal, a stunning long-range strike against Bournemouth, immediately became one of the club’s standout goals of the season. The technique, calmness, and precision shocked fans who knew him only as a ball-playing defender.
Saliba also contributes through set pieces. His height and timing make him a threat during corners and free-kicks, where he often pulls defenders away from teammates or rises to meet the ball himself. While his total career goals remain modest—as is typical for defenders—each one has come in important moments, symbolizing his development into a complete modern center-back.
Notable Matches
Several performances have defined Saliba’s rise. His debut Premier League match against Crystal Palace earned widespread praise, as he dominated defensively and looked unfazed under pressure. Matches against elite Premier League forwards—such as Harry Kane, Mohamed Salah, and Erling Haaland—have further highlighted his maturity and ability to neutralize world-class attackers. In the Champions League with Arsenal, Saliba has shown the same calmness, often controlling the tempo from the back.
Achievements & Milestones
Saliba’s achievements continue to grow. He won the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year award during his loan at Marseille and has been included in several Team of the Season selections. At Arsenal, he played a crucial role in the club finishing as one of the strongest defensive sides in the league. His highlights include clean-sheet streaks, elite passing accuracy, and recognition as one of Europe’s best young defenders. These achievements are clear signs of a player destined for long-term greatness.
William Saliba Wife / Relationship Life
William Saliba is known for being extremely private about his personal and romantic life. Unlike many footballers who openly share details about their relationships on social media, Saliba has chosen a more discreet and reserved approach. As of now, he has not publicly confirmed having a wife, nor has he disclosed the identity of a girlfriend. This privacy has led to curiosity among fans, but Saliba prefers to let his football do the talking rather than invite attention to his personal affairs.
Despite his silence on relationship matters, Saliba has occasionally been seen at public events with close friends or family members, but never in a context that suggests an official partner. Media outlets frequently speculate, yet he has never commented or given any indication of being married. This discretion reflects his grounded personality and disciplined lifestyle, focusing fully on his career during these crucial years of his development.
Saliba’s dedication to football means he spends much of his time training, traveling for matches, and recovering physically. Balancing personal life with professional commitments can be challenging for athletes, but Saliba seems to manage this by keeping his inner circle small and avoiding unnecessary distractions. Those close to him often describe him as calm, humble, and family-oriented—traits that influence how he protects his private life.
In interviews, Saliba has mentioned how important his family is to him, especially considering their support during his early years in France. While fans remain eager to know whether he is dating or considering marriage, Saliba has made it clear that privacy is a priority. Until he chooses to reveal more, the subject of a “William Saliba wife” or girlfriend remains mostly speculation.
His personal life remains intentionally low-profile, allowing him to stay focused on becoming one of the world’s best defenders.
William Saliba Injuries & Recovery
William Saliba’s career has been marked by incredible consistency, but like most professional footballers, he has faced a few injuries that tested his resilience. The most notable setback came during Arsenal’s crucial title-chasing 2022/2023 season, when Saliba suffered a lower back injury that kept him out for the remainder of the campaign. His absence was immediately felt—Arsenal’s defensive stability weakened, proving how essential he had become to the team. Many analysts later stated that if Saliba had remained fit, Arsenal’s title hopes might have turned out differently.
Prior to that major injury, Saliba had maintained an impressive fitness record. While on loan at Saint-Étienne and Marseille, he experienced minor knocks and muscle stiffness, but nothing that kept him sidelined for extended periods. His physical maturity, excellent conditioning, and disciplined lifestyle have played a significant role in keeping injuries to a minimum.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Saliba’s recovery process has been praised for its professionalism. Following his back injury, he underwent a carefully monitored rehabilitation program that combined physiotherapy, strength conditioning, and mobility exercises. Arsenal’s medical team ensured he rebuilt strength gradually while avoiding setbacks. His willingness to put in extra work behind the scenes shows why he has returned even stronger.
Impact on Performance
What makes Saliba exceptional is his ability to regain form quickly after injury. Some players struggle psychologically or physically when returning, but Saliba re-entered the starting lineup with the same composure, confidence, and sharp defensive awareness. His injury experience appears to have strengthened his mentality, giving him a deeper understanding of his body and the importance of managing workload.
Today, Saliba is considered one of the most durable and reliable defenders in the Premier League. His fitness levels, combined with smart recovery routines, make him a player capable of sustaining peak performance for many years.
William Saliba Playing Style & Strengths
William Saliba’s playing style has quickly established him as one of the most complete modern defenders in world football. He represents a new generation of center-backs—those who combine defensive solidity with technical brilliance, composure, and intelligence. Saliba is not just a stopper; he is a controller, a ball-progressor, and a calming presence who influences the entire structure of his team.
Defensive Style & Tactical Awareness
Saliba is known for his excellent reading of the game, often winning challenges before they even fully develop. Instead of relying on risky tackles or last-ditch sliding challenges, he prefers to stay on his feet, anticipate movements, and intercept passes. This proactive approach makes him extremely difficult for attackers to outmaneuver.
His positioning is another standout quality. Whether facing counterattacks or organized build-up play, Saliba places himself in the perfect zones to block passing lanes, track runners, or delay the opposition’s transition. His patience and timing show maturity beyond his years.
Strengths: Aerial Duels, Ball Distribution, Composure
One of Saliba’s biggest strengths is his dominance in aerial duels. Standing at 1.92m, with superb timing and balance, he regularly wins headers defensively and during offensive set pieces. His calm presence in high-pressure situations also distinguishes him; Saliba rarely panics, even when pressed by multiple attackers.
On the ball, he is among the best ball-playing defenders in Europe. He progresses the ball through line-breaking passes, intelligent diagonals, and confident carries into midfield. His distribution helps Arsenal maintain control and build from the back effectively.
Areas of Improvement & Future Potential
While already elite, Saliba can still improve in scoring consistency from set pieces and becoming more vocal as a leader on the pitch. With time, he is expected to grow into a captain-like figure. His current trajectory suggests he will soon be regarded among the top three defenders in world football.
William Saliba International Career
William Saliba’s international career with France reflects his steady rise from a promising youth defender to a reliable option for one of the strongest national teams in the world. His journey started at the youth level, where he represented France U16, U17, U18, and U20, building a reputation as a composed, technically gifted center-back. Even at a young age, coaches praised his discipline, physicality, and maturity—qualities that would later earn him a place in the senior squad.
Youth National Team Contributions
During his time with the French youth teams, Saliba showed impressive consistency. He played key roles in several international youth tournaments and qualifiers, demonstrating strong leadership and adaptability. Coaches frequently trusted him to anchor the defense against top-level opponents, giving him invaluable international experience early on.
Senior National Team Debut & Role
Saliba received his first senior call-up in March 2022, a testament to his outstanding form at Marseille and Arsenal. He made his debut shortly after and quickly integrated into the squad. Competing for a place among world-class defenders such as Raphaël Varane, Dayot Upamecano, and Jules Koundé is challenging, but Saliba continues to impress with every opportunity he gets.
He was included in France’s squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Although not a guaranteed starter, he gained crucial experience and contributed to training sessions, learning from veterans and adapting to the tactical demands of international football.
Contributions in Key Matches
Saliba has delivered solid performances in UEFA Nations League games, Euro qualifiers, and international friendlies. His calmness, physical strength, and elite ball progression have added a new dimension to France’s defensive options. Many analysts predict he will become a long-term pillar of the French national team, potentially leading the defense in future major tournaments.
William Saliba Future Predictions & Career Projection
William Saliba’s future in football looks exceptionally bright, and many analysts consider him one of the most promising young defenders in Europe. At just 24 years old, he has already demonstrated Premier League-level composure, tactical awareness, and physical dominance, which form the foundation for a long, successful career at the elite level. His development trajectory suggests he could become one of the world’s top center-backs within the next five years.
Club Career Projection
Saliba’s immediate future lies with Arsenal, where he has become a cornerstone of the defense. However, given his rapid rise and international reputation, speculation about potential transfers to Europe’s elite clubs—such as Real Madrid, PSG, or Bayern Munich—is unlikely to subside. These clubs often seek defenders with his physical attributes, technical skills, and age profile. Should a move occur, it would likely be a stepping stone to further international recognition and club honors, including domestic league titles and UEFA Champions League glory.
National Team Impact
Saliba’s role in the French national team is also expected to grow. With veterans like Raphaël Varane nearing the latter stages of their careers, Saliba is well-positioned to become a defensive leader for France. Analysts project that within a few years, he could be a starting center-back in major tournaments, including the Euros and World Cup, bringing stability and ball-playing quality to the French backline.
Longevity & Career Milestones
Assuming he maintains fitness and avoids serious injuries, Saliba’s peak years could span a decade or more. He is likely to achieve personal milestones such as inclusion in UEFA or FIFA Team of the Year selections, domestic league awards, and possibly recognition as one of Europe’s top defenders. His calm, intelligent approach, combined with natural athleticism, positions him for a legacy as one of France’s great modern defenders.
Conclusion & Legacy
William Saliba’s journey from the youth academies of Marseille to the elite stages of European football reflects both talent and unwavering dedication. At just 24 years old, he has already showcased remarkable technical skill, tactical intelligence, and physical dominance, establishing himself as a cornerstone for Arsenal and a rising star for the French national team. His disciplined approach to fitness, recovery, and personal development ensures he continues to evolve as a modern defender capable of influencing matches at the highest level.
Saliba’s legacy is not only defined by his performances on the pitch but also by his humility, professionalism, and resilience. Whether it’s his calm ball distribution from the back, his aerial dominance, or his ability to read the game, he embodies the qualities of a complete center-back. Furthermore, his private, family-focused personal life has allowed him to stay grounded amid global recognition and media attention.
Looking ahead, Saliba’s trajectory suggests a career filled with domestic and European honors, international acclaim, and potential leadership roles in both club and country. If he maintains his current form and growth, he is poised to become one of France’s great modern defenders, leaving a lasting impact on football through skill, consistency, and professionalism.
William Saliba FAQ
How old is William Saliba?
William Saliba was born on March 24, 2001, which makes him 24 years old as of 2025.
Which clubs has William Saliba played for?
Saliba began his youth career at AS Saint-Étienne, progressed to their senior team, and later joined Arsenal in 2019. He has had loan spells at Saint-Étienne, Nice, and Marseille to gain experience before becoming a first-team regular at Arsenal.
Who are William Saliba’s parents?
Saliba was born to Nigerian-French parents in Marseille. His father has been a guiding figure throughout his career, emphasizing discipline and support, while his mother has provided emotional stability and guidance.
Is William Saliba married?
As of 2025, Saliba has not publicly confirmed being married. He maintains a private personal life, and there is no confirmed information about a wife or girlfriend.
What is William Saliba’s current club?
William Saliba currently plays for Arsenal FC as a central defender, where he has become a key figure in the club’s defensive lineup.
What are William Saliba’s stats?
Saliba is known for his tackling, aerial dominance, interceptions, and ball distribution. He consistently ranks high in passing accuracy (around 91–93%), defensive duels won, and clean sheets, reflecting his importance to Arsenal and growing impact internationally.
Has William Saliba been linked with Real Madrid?
Yes, Saliba has been rumored to attract interest from Real Madrid due to his physical profile, defensive skills, and potential. However, as of now, he remains with Arsenal and has expressed satisfaction with his current development at the club.