William Saliba is determined to fight for his place in the Arsenal first team as he looks to finally make his mark in north London.
The centre-back signed for the Gunners three years ago but since then has been back in France for various loan spells, bringing into doubt whether he had a long-term future at Arsenal under Mikel Arteta.
Despite that time away, and rumours of a potential permament move to Marseille, Saliba has made it clear this summer that he wants to return to Arsenal and try and force his way into Arteta’s plans.
Speaking in Baltimore, on the Gunners’ pre-season tour to the United States, the 21-year-old confirmed his intentions for the season ahead and revealed he has held discussions with Arteta.
“We spoke a little bit on Monday and will speak more,” Saliba told the club’s official website.
“My plan is to fight and work with the team, win as much as possible, and grow more. It feels good to be back and starting pre-season.
“I’m so excited to continue training and playing in the friendly games. It’s important to be here with the fans, as well as my teammates. I hope we’ll enjoy some good training and games which is important before the start of the season.”
Saliba signed for Arsenal when Unai Emery was in charge and since then there has been changes not only in terms of the manager but also a significant overhaul of the squad.
There are no fears from Saliba about catching up though, after his loan spells away, with the Frenchman keeping a close eye on the club’s fortunes while he was in France.
“When I was on loan I watched every single [Arsenal] game because when I was there some players weren’t,” Saliba said.
“I watched the games to see how they played, so when I was back it would be easier to play with those I hadn’t met before.
“It’s important that the fans are behind you, and I like it very much. I can’t wait to give back to them.”
