Former Arsenal boss has already dropped a major hint on the Gunners’ intentions over William Saliba as major doubts continue to emerge over the Frenchman’s future in north London. The centre-back signed for Arsenal back in 2019 but has not yet been handed a first-team appearance for the club.
He stayed with his former club Saint-Etienne and after playing for the club’s development side during his first six months in north London, Saliba was then sent out on loan to OGC Nice for the second-half of the campaign. He racked up 22 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 outfit and had done enough to catch the eye of Marseille.
The 21-year-old was then allowed to join Les Olympiens on a season-long loan, where his form has, if anything, improved. Saliba’s displays at the Orange Velodrome have seen him earn international recognition for France and emerge as a potential first-team player at Arsenal next term.
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Despite that, there is still some doubt over the Frenchman’s long-term prospects at the Emirates Stadium. Ahead of his return, he is likely to face severe competition from the likes of Ben White and Gabriel Magalhaes for a starting berth.
With only two years remaining on his current Arsenal contract once he returns, there have been suggestions that Saliba could be sold. However, former Arsenal boss Unai Emery revealed exactly what his plans were following his arrival - and that involved a permanent stay in north London.
Speaking after the Frenchman’s initial signing, the now Villarreal head coach said: “We’re delighted William is joining us. Many teams wanted him but he decided he wanted to come to us and be part of our future. He will stay in France next season for more experience and then we look forward to him joining our group.”
For the meantime, Saliba will hope that he can help Marseille to their targets over the final nine games of the campaign. The side currently sit second in Ligue 1 and are on track to seal a Champions League place come the end of the season.
