Arsenal have secured the long-term future of William Saliba, with the French defender signing a new contract that ties him to the club until 2030.
Saliba had just two years remaining on his previous deal going into the summer, which raised questions over his next move. Real Madrid were reportedly monitoring his situation as they plan for defensive reinforcements, but the 24-year-old has opted to commit his future to the Gunners instead.
According to TBR Football, Arsenal agreed on a fresh five-year contract with Saliba, and the deal has now been made official. While he is pleased to have signed, the centre-back admitted he won’t feel fully content until the team turns performances into silverware.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Saliba explained:
“I played well, we almost won the league in the first season, and we almost won the league the season after as well. I’m happy now, but not 100% happy because we have to do more. We have to win titles, because it’s what we want, what the club wants.”
Arsenal have been close to major success in recent years, finishing second in the Premier League three seasons running and reaching the Champions League semi-finals. With Saliba now secured for the long haul, the hope is that his presence at the heart of defense can help the club finally cross the line.
The Frenchman also praised the supporters, crediting them with making his connection to Arsenal even stronger. He shared:
“I’ve enjoyed it [his chant] since the first time I heard it. I feel proud whenever I hear these songs, so thanks to the fans. I have a special connection with them, because even when I was on loan, when I was not playing here, they would send me messages to say:
‘one day, you will play for this club, you don’t have to give up.’ I will never forget this. Thank you for everything, thank you for the support. We know what they are waiting for, and we’ll give our best, even more than the previous season, to give them what they want.”
With his new deal confirmed, Saliba looks set to remain a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defense, as the club pushes toward the trophies both he and the fans are desperate to see lifted.
