Sophia
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed the details of his private conversations with star defender William Saliba regarding strong transfer interest from Real Madrid, confirming the Frenchman’s unwavering commitment to the Gunners.
The highly anticipated announcement of Saliba’s long-term contract extension at Arsenal is now expected imminently, putting an end to months of speculation and an ambitious pursuit by the Spanish giants.
Saliba’s Unwavering Commitment
Reports earlier this week indicated that Saliba has already agreed to the terms of a lucrative new deal with Arsenal. This development thwarts Real Madrid’s reported efforts, which included speculation of record transfer bids and even a strategic play to sign him on a free transfer in 2027.
Speaking at a press conference, Arteta praised the 24-year-old’s conduct throughout the saga, confirming that Saliba’s public desire to stay with Arsenal was consistently mirrored in their private discussions.
“I was quite direct with him, because when you hear that noise—you can understand, players have feelings,” Arteta explained. “At the end, players have feelings, players have been educated in their families, maybe they are dreaming about something one day, and that’s a really natural thing to have.”
“When I sat down with William, I asked him the question. He said, ‘No, I want to stay here, I want to play for you and I’m very happy’.”
When pressed on whether these conversations specifically revolved around Real Madrid, Arteta elaborated, “In general, I didn’t want to be specific, but it was obvious with the amount of noise there was around certain clubs. We didn’t have to name many teams, but there are not that many that can come and get Willy out from us and him being happy to discuss it. He was clear and so transparent and honest from the beginning.”
A Flourishing Partnership and Defensive bedrock
For Arsenal supporters, the wait now is simply for the official announcement of Saliba putting pen to paper. Arteta expressed his optimism for a swift resolution.
“Hopefully it will be everyone in the world [confirming the new contract has been signed], Arsenal included, very soon,” Arteta beamed. “That’s what I’m hoping, but let’s leave the club to announce that when it’s all done.”
Saliba has been instrumental in Arsenal’s resurgence, playing a pivotal role in their defensive solidity. “He’s been instrumental in everything we’ve done these last few years. It’s been great to see a lot of players willing to commit to the club. That means they are happy, they feel valued and they see that it is the best opportunity for them to continue their careers and fulfil the ambition of the club,” Arteta added.
“Very impressive, what he’s done at his age. His consistency, the way he’s progressed and matured as a person, he’s grown year after year. I think he’s built a partnership with Gabi [Magalhães] especially, but with the back line and the keeper that has given the best defensive record in the last three years, I think. He’s been pivotal to that.”
William Saliba’s Premier League Impact:
- Appearances: 104
- Goals: 6
- Clean Sheets: 43
- Best PL finish: 2nd (2022–23, 2023–24, 2024–25)
- Honours: Community Shield (2020, 2023)
From Initial Friction to Unstoppable Force
Saliba’s journey at Arsenal wasn’t without its initial challenges. Arteta recalled the early days of their relationship, which saw some friction over Saliba’s perceived limited first-team opportunities.
“The way we started our relationship, when probably we had different expectations or ideas of how we started to create the best pathway for him to fulfil his potential, at some point, we got to the same conclusion, we decided to work together and, from there, everything started to flourish,” Arteta reflected.
“It was clear the potential was there, it was about timing and, in my opinion, creating the right environment for him to deliver what he could do.”
