It's been a long time coming, but on Saturday night Arsenal fans finally got to see William Saliba in the famous red and white once again. Some may say it was worth the wait, others will be suggesting that Arsenal could have done with him last season, but the main thing is that he certainly didn't disappoint.
Arsenal ran out 2-0 winners against Everton to secure their third victory of pre-season. It was a convincing performance, especially in the first half and Saliba was by far one of the standouts. Comfortable in possession, clever in his movement and difficult to get past, the 21-year-old did his job in pretty convincing fashion.
Speaking after the game, Mikel Arteta was equally as pleased with Saliba's display and the progress he has made over the last few months. "He was really good," Arteta said. "I think he played a really good game, he looked really composed, straight away from day one he looked completely focussed, he’s evolved the way we wanted and today I think he had a great performance."
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Following three consecutive loan spells, there has been much uncertainty over Saliba's long-term future as an Arsenal player. Those within the club have said all along that it was part of the plan and he would get his chance, but that hasn't stopped the speculation in the meantime.
After paying around £27million for his services back in 2019, it's no surprise to see why there has been so much attention surrounding the Frenchman, but picking up Ligue 1's Young Player of the Year award and becoming a senior France international since have meant that the attention has only continued to grow.
However, he is back at the club he supported as a kid and now he must relish the opportunities that come his way. Arteta has said that those who found themselves out on loan last season have "a clean start" and for Saliba, he must view it as exactly that.
With more games to play and an increase in substitutions, there's no doubt that he will get his chance. Last night can be just the start for Saliba at Arsenal if he wants it to be and he certainly proved that he has what it takes to be a success. He has grown in every aspect as a player, and it couldn't be any clearer that he's ready to become a regular in the first-team squad.
Granted, you can't reach every conclusion from one pre-season game, but the fact that he can put in a performance like that against a physical Premier League opponent while playing with so many new faces says all you need to know about Saliba's quality. If he keeps on the right path, Arsenal have one hell of a talent on their hands next season.
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