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William Saliba has offered a humble response to claims he is currently the best centre-back in the world, as Arsenal prepare for their Champions League semi-final showdown against Paris Saint-Germain.
The Gunners welcome the French champions to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night for the first leg of their semi-final clash, with their hopes of securing silverware this season now resting solely on European glory. Arsenal missed out on the Premier League title to Liverpool but remain determined to make history by winning their first-ever Champions League trophy.
Mikel Arteta’s side produced an impressive display in the quarter-finals, eliminating Real Madrid with victories both home and away. To overcome PSG and reach the final, they will once again need Saliba at his commanding best.
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In the build-up to the semi-final, the 24-year-old Frenchman has been hailed by some as the best defender in world football. However, Saliba was quick to play down the lofty praise in an interview with Téléfoot.
« Je suis l’un des meilleurs défenseurs du monde, mais pas encore le meilleur. »
William Saliba estime qu’il lui reste encore du travail à accomplir avant de devenir le meilleur défenseur du monde. @ThomasMekhiche @YassinNfaoui pic.twitter.com/9DfyabGPRc
— Téléfoot (@telefoot_TF1) April 27, 2025
“I think I am one of the best, but not yet the best defender in the world. I can still become much better one day, and I hope to keep improving.”
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Saliba has been a standout performer since cementing his place in Arsenal’s first team, forming a formidable centre-back partnership with Gabriel Magalhães over the past three seasons. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid reportedly maintaining strong interest in the French international.
Los Blancos have admired Saliba since his early days at Saint-Etienne and continue to monitor his situation closely. According to reports, Real Madrid have maintained a positive relationship with Saliba’s representatives and are considering a future move. If Arsenal set a high asking price this summer, Madrid could opt to wait until 2026 — when Saliba enters the final year of his contract — or even target him as a free agent the following year.
Meanwhile, it was a weekend of success for Arsenal’s women’s team, as they secured their place in the Women’s Champions League final with a convincing 4-1 semi-final second-leg victory over Lyon Féminin.
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