Leandro Trossard believes Arsenal have a potential world-beater in William Saliba, insisting the Frenchman has all the attributes to become the best centre-back on the planet. Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the Gunners’ latest Premier League clash, Trossard hailed Saliba’s calmness, physicality, and mentality, but warned that consistency and focus will determine just how far he can go.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have undergone a remarkable rebuild in recent years, adding the likes of Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, and Riccardo Calafiori to strengthen both attack and defence. Yet, it is Saliba who continues to stand out as the anchor of a back line that has drawn plaudits across England and Europe.
Saliba, 24, has already established himself as one of the Premier League’s finest defenders. Arsenal fans feared losing him to Real Madrid amid mounting interest from Spain, but the club recently tied him down to a new deal running until 2030. With his long-term future secured, attention now turns to whether he can truly reach the pinnacle of world football.
Trossard: Why Saliba can be the best
Trossard was full of praise when asked about his defensive teammate, highlighting both his technical and physical gifts as well as his character in the dressing room.
“First of all, he’s a great human being. He’s a funny guy. On the pitch, I think he’s one of the best in the world at the moment. He’s so calm on the ball, but then off the ball, it’s so hard to get past him. He’s strong, he’s quick. He has basically everything. He just needs to focus on every single game. And I think then you can be the best in the world in this position.” — Leandro Trossard to Sky Sports
The Belgian attacker doubled down when asked if Saliba could go on to become the best defender in the world: “Definitely. If he is on it every single game and he pushes himself, he can be. He has all the attributes for it.”
Arsenal’s defensive backbone
Arteta has carefully constructed a balanced defence, with Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, and Calafiori all contributing to a robust unit. Yet, it is Saliba’s leadership and composure that make the difference. Arsenal’s improved record in big matches is often attributed to his ability to shut down elite forwards and build play from the back.
| Stat (2025/26) | William Saliba |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 5 |
| Total duels won | 4.8 (71%) |
| Ball recovered | 3.2 |
| Pass Accuracy | 94% |
source: sofascore match data (Per game) – 4 October 2025
Saliba has consistently ranked among Arsenal’s top performers for clearances, interceptions, and passing accuracy. His ability to blend defensive solidity with composure on the ball makes him a unique asset in Arteta’s system.
Analyst Verdict: Saliba’s next step
According to our FootballPlace analyst John William, Saliba is already operating at a level that places him in Europe’s elite bracket. However, consistency at the very top will be key. “Saliba has the physique, the intelligence, and the temperament. To be regarded as the best in the world, he must dominate Champions League knockout ties and maintain form across an entire season. That is what separates the very good from the world-class.”
William adds that Arsenal’s decision to secure him on a long-term deal is a statement of intent: “Keeping Saliba until 2030 is massive. It protects Arsenal from Madrid’s advances and signals that the Emirates is where the world’s best defender could emerge.”
Key Insights
- Leandro Trossard believes Saliba has everything to become the world’s best defender.
- Saliba signed a new Arsenal contract until 2030, quashing Real Madrid interest.
- Arsenal’s back line is thriving under Arteta, with Saliba central to their success.
- Focus and consistency remain the key factors for Saliba’s next leap.
- Arsenal’s ambitions in Europe could hinge on his performances.
What’s Next for Arsenal and Saliba?
Arsenal face West Ham United this weekend before playing Fulham away in the Premier League. These fixtures provide the perfect platform for Saliba to showcase his quality on the biggest stage.
If he continues to dominate both domestically and in Europe, the claim of being “the best in the world” will no longer sound premature. For Arsenal, that would be both a blessing and a challenge — keeping hold of a player every major club would want.
👉 Do you agree with Trossard — is William Saliba on track to become the best defender in the world?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 4 Oct 2025 11:33
Not sure when the last time I was jealous at a Arsenal player, but certain this is one of many they've right now.. Saliba is top 3 in the world right now, van Dijk number 1
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