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WILLIAM SALIBA aims to cement his legacy at Arsenal alongside his center-back counterpart Gabriel.
Nonetheless, the French defender is well aware that they cannot attain legendary status without winning the trophies that define the club’s greatest players.
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The significant presence of Saliba, 23, and Gabriel, 26, has been crucial in Arsenal’s quest for silverware.
They undoubtedly showcase all the traits of the best defenders in Arsenal’s storied history.
The strength and agility of Sol Campbell, the authoritative presence and charisma of Tony Adams, and the relentless drive and passion of Martin Keown.
Moreover, the duo plays vital roles off the pitch by participating in various “Arsenal in the Community” initiatives, fully acknowledging their roles as role models and mentors.
However, the paths diverge when it comes to titles.
Former captain Adams remains the only player in English football to clinch league titles across three different decades—1989, 1991, 1998, and 2002—his legacy enshrined in bronze outside the Emirates.
Adams, now 58, won the title with Steve Bould in 1998, followed by Campbell and Keown in 2002, with the latter two pivotal in Arsenal’s unbeaten 2004 Invincibles season.
This remarkable partnership must accomplish similar feats to secure their places in history books.
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Saliba stated: “To be recognized as legendary defenders, we need to win some trophies.”
“We haven’t achieved that yet, but we are determined to do everything necessary to make it happen.”
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Saliba transferred for £27 million from Saint-Etienne as a teenager in 2019 but spent time on loan at Nice and Marseille before forming a robust partnership with Brazilian Gabriel—who also transferred for £27 million from Lille in 2020—once Mikel Arteta paired them at the start of the 2022-23 season.
Saliba noted: “From the very first time I played alongside him, I’ve enjoyed every match.”
“He’s an outstanding defender, excelling in all areas.”
After falling short in the previous two seasons—twice finishing behind Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City—this season presents a different kind of challenge.
Arteta’s squad is currently seven points behind leaders Liverpool after 14 games, as they prepare to face Fulham across London. Saliba stated: “Everything is possible.”
“The season is long, and we’ve learned from the past two years. We just need to focus on our performance.”
“We’re still in December, and much can happen.”
“While we can improve, Mikel has greatly increased our confidence.”
Born in the northeastern Paris suburb of Bondy, Saliba—who started his journey as a striker—looked up to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry as a child.
He even had the name of Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer, who netted 228 goals for Arsenal, printed on his jersey.
Despite this, Saliba confessed that he never had the chance to meet any of his football idols as he grew up.
This experience has heightened his desire to connect with fans through Arsenal in the Community activities.
Recently, Saliba took time to join year three students at Ashmount Primary School in Islington, located just under two miles from the Emirates.
Arsenal is built on its strong ties to the local community, and Saliba, together with the whole Gunners squad, has wholeheartedly embraced this spirit.
Taking a break from the competitive title race, he dedicated the day to answering questions, participating in a reading class with the children, and enjoying a kick-about, which ended with lots of hugs and high-fives.
Saliba remarked: “As a child, I didn’t get that opportunity, so I’m thrilled to give back and do this. I know the difference we can make in the kids’ lives.”
“We’ve all been in their shoes at some point. We understand that when you love football, you want to meet players like us.”
“From my first day, I’ve noticed that we engage in numerous activities with the kids in the community.”
“I genuinely enjoy these types of events, and it’s crucial to stay connected with our local community.”
“We are excited to be part of these projects. Their support serves as incredible motivation for us and we carry it onto the pitch every single time.”
Arsenal’s No 2 goalkeeper Neto—who has yet to make his debut for the club since arriving on loan from Bournemouth this summer—joined Saliba at the community event.
The 35-year-old Brazil international stated: “It’s important because football is about community and passion.”
“The community plays a significant role in maintaining the sport’s fervor, and I truly appreciate that.”
“When we connect with children through such activities, it’s really wonderful. We can relive our own experiences of being close to players; it’s a dream come true for them.”
“As a father myself, I believe these connections to the community enrich the experience.”
