Marcel Desailly tips Arsenal defender William Saliba for Real Madrid
Former Chelsea and France captain Marcel Desailly believes Arsenal defender William Saliba is the best centre-back in world football and will eventually secure a transfer to Real Madrid.
The 23-year-old has flourished at Emirates Stadium since establishing himself as a first-team regular in 2022 following several successful loan spells in his homeland.
He has formed a formidable partnership with Brazilian international Gabriel, creating a defensive foundation that has helped Mikel Arteta’s side mount consecutive Premier League title challenges.
Surpassing Van Dijk
The World Cup-winning Frenchman insists that the Gunners star has now overtaken Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as the premier central defender in the global game.
Desailly also controversially claimed that Gabriel’s own impressive performances are largely a direct result of playing alongside the exceptional French international.
“Who do I think is the best centre-back in the world? It’s not Virgil van Dijk.”
Marcel Desailly
“I would put William Saliba there, even though he has some problems with his back, I think he’s in the conversation for the world’s best centre-back.”
“Gabriel is only there because of Saliba – so Gabriel, no, he’s not in the conversation.”
Future at the Bernabeu
The highly-rated centre-half committed his long-term future to the north London club last year by signing a lucrative contract extension.
Despite this significant commitment to Arsenal, his compatriot fully expects the reigning European champions to eventually acquire his signature.
“I do expect William Saliba to one day wear the colours of Real Madrid. He’s committed to Arsenal for the next, I don’t know, four years.”
“The door is open, and all the best players want to play for Real Madrid at some point in their careers.”