Arsenal’s defensive rock, William Saliba, has once again stolen the spotlight in English football — and even Liverpool players couldn’t help but show their admiration.

Since breaking into Mikel Arteta’s first team in 2022, Saliba has been nothing short of exceptional. After initially joining the Gunners back in 2019 and spending valuable loan spells away, the Frenchman has now cemented himself as one of the Premier League’s finest defenders.

🔒 Forming a wall at the back
Last season, his partnership with Gabriel was a nightmare for opposition strikers, with Arsenal boasting the best defensive record in the division. Unsurprisingly, his consistency has also caught the eye abroad — with Real Madrid said to be keeping close tabs as his contract enters its final two years.

🔥 Recognition well deserved
This week, Saliba’s efforts were officially rewarded once more as he secured a place in the PFA Team of the Year for the third season running. Taking to Instagram, he wrote: “Always a pleasure to be included in the PFA Team of the Year.”

His post quickly drew attention from across the football world. Liverpool pair Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté were among those to acknowledge his achievement, while Arsenal teammates flooded the comments with support. Oleksandr Zinchenko left a fiery message, and both Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka dropped their likes in celebration.

⚽ Arsenal’s statement of intent
Alongside Saliba’s recognition, Arsenal had more reasons to cheer. Declan Rice and Gabriel were also named in the Team of the Year, underlining the Gunners’ defensive dominance last season. And with the club reportedly blocking any move for Saliba, it’s clear he remains central to Arteta’s long-term plans.

To add even more drama to the week, Arsenal pulled off a stunning transfer twist — beating Tottenham to the signing of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. The midfielder, who skipped Palace’s recent European fixture, is now set for his medical before sealing the move to the Emirates.

👉 With Saliba’s rise continuing and Arsenal strengthening further, the question remains: could this finally be the season Arteta’s men break their title drought?