William Saliba is now widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s most dominant defenders, but things could have been very different for the Arsenal star without Wilfried Mbappe’s intervention
William Saliba has credited Kylian Mbappe’s dad with helping to transform him into the dominant defender he is today.
The Frenchman was a key part of Arsenal’s starting line-up last season, forming a successful partnership with Gabriel at centre-back. Their defensive performances helped the Gunners to mount a surprise title challenge against Manchester City in the Premier League.
In fact, it was Saliba’s season-ending injury against Sporting Lisbon in March which many credit with derailing the Gunners’ attempt to end their long wait for a title. But heading into last summer, it appeared that Saliba would be departing the Emirates Stadium.
Saliba had been struggling to convince boss Mikel Arteta that he could be a long-term option in defence. Instead, he was sent out on a series of loans to Ligue 1, where he impressed with Marseille.