Arsenal defender William Saliba can add Virgil van Dijk to his growing fan club if the Liverpool centre-back’s social media activity is anything to go by. Saliba, 21, delivered an outstanding performance on his Premier League debut in the 2-0 victory against Crystal Palace on Friday.
The France youngster looked assured against a tricky Palace attack, helping the Gunners to an impressive opening day win at Selhurst Park.
Saliba was hailed by the Sky Sports pundits after the match with Gary Neville likening him to Rio Ferdinand. “I was massively impressed with Saliba,” said Neville.
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"He actually reminded me of a young Rio Ferdinand. He’s such a young defender at 21. Getting through that second half, when Arsenal weren’t at their best, would have been the most pleasing thing for Mikel Arteta. Crystal Palace away, that’s a tough challenge and that’s a big performance from Saliba."
Ian Wright was also impressed with Saliba, who spent last season on loan at Marseille in Ligue 1. "Magnificent. He was fantastic tonight. He looks like a brand new signing," the Gunners legend told Premier League productions.
"Mikel and Edu have got to take a lot of credit for what they’ve done with this guy. This guy is someone we’ve always thought would be special."
His performance also appeared to catch the eye of Liverpool’s van Dijk, who quickly followed Saliba on Instagram after the match.
Saliba said at full-time: "It's been a long time I’ve waited for this moment, I'm so happy to start my first game with a win and a clean sheet.
"It's never easy, you have to give your maximum and it was good. It's the first game, it's important to win for the confidence and to start the season well."
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