William Saliba has had an excellent start to the season. With two goals from centre-back, as well as three clean sheets and top spot in the Premier League to boot, the Frenchman has deservedly been called-up to Didier Deschamps' national side for the country's upcoming UEFA Nations League clashes with Austria and Denmark.
As many know, his Arsenal career hasn't always been plain sailing, though. After three loans in as many years, there was uncertainty over whether he was truly a part of Edu and Mikel Arteta's long-term project. With that doubt in the air, many questioned Arteta's decision to keep the now 21-year-old out on loan when seemingly inferior players were being used by the Spaniard back in England.
One of the many people to criticise the decision at the time was Gunners legend, Ian Wright.
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"I’m supposed to believe that Kolasinac – someone that they’re trying to get rid of – is better than William Saliba?" he asked on Premier League productions, as cited by the Mirror, back in 2021. "Saliba, who is out on loan and apparently not at the [required] standard.
"So if [Saliba] is not at the standard to play in this team – and Kolasinac can play – why have we bought him? Because if Kolasinac can play in front of him, what’s going on? Why have we bought him?"
Fast forward just over a year and there is certainly no one asking why Arsenal bought Saliba, as the young French international has adjusted to life in the English top-flight with ease. Arteta's decision has also somewhat been vindicated as Saliba looks assured after gaining a wealth of experience in Ligue 1.
It looks as though he's only going to go from strength to strength, too, and with rumours circulating that he's close to agreeing a new deal in north London, perhaps fans can forgive Arteta's patience with integrating him into the side.
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