Arsenal’s William Saliba has garnered high praise from Liverpool legend Steve Nicol, who boldly asserts that the 22-year-old is currently one of the Premier League’s standout defenders. Saliba’s journey with the Gunners began in 2019 when he signed from Saint-Etienne. Initially struggling to secure a spot in Arsenal’s starting eleven, Saliba was loaned out to gain first-team experience and further his career.
The turning point for the 22-year-old came last season when he was given the opportunity to feature prominently for Arsenal. He swiftly demonstrated his best attributes in the English top-flight, playing a pivotal role in Arsenal’s title charge. However, the team faced challenges in maintaining their form after Saliba suffered an injury setback.
This season, Saliba has made a triumphant return, contributing significantly to Arsenal’s success. The team currently sits in third place in the Premier League with 27 points from 12 games, just one point behind league leaders Manchester City. Saliba’s impact has been crucial in Arsenal’s strong position.
Steve Nicol, speaking on ESPN FC Show, expressed his admiration for Saliba’s recent performances, noting that the French defender has not made a mistake in three years. Nicol went further to claim that Saliba was the best defender in the Premier League before his injury troubles last season. Despite facing competition from the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Nicol argues that Saliba, along with Micky Van de Ven, currently stands out as one of the two best center-backs in the league.
Nicol’s praise for Saliba underscores the defender’s consistency and significant contribution to Arsenal’s defensive strength. Despite initial challenges in breaking into the starting lineup, Saliba has overcome obstacles to establish himself as a top defender. Nicol’s commendation positions Saliba as a key asset for Arsenal, and the Frenchman continues to prove his worth with each performance. Arsenal’s decision to give Saliba an opportunity has proven to be a wise move, with the defender now regarded as one of the best in the Premier League.