Arsenal are approaching what could be a pivotal summer under Mikel Arteta’s leadership.
Since Arteta took charge, the Gunners have come close to Premier League success, narrowly missing out on the title to Manchester City in the past two seasons. With two games left in the current campaign, another second-place finish seems likely. Their recent Champions League semi-final exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain also still lingers in the memory.
Despite their progress, Arsenal have fallen just short of major silverware. To change that, the club must ensure Arteta receives the support needed to take the next step. While the need for a top striker has been apparent, a key task for new sporting director Andrea Berta will be securing the futures of vital players.
William Saliba, with two years left on his contract, is among those priorities. The club is reportedly in talks over an extension and remains calm about the situation, determined to ward off interest from elsewhere.
One club monitoring Saliba is Real Madrid, though a move this summer appears unlikely. Arsenal are not expected to sell unless presented with an extraordinary offer. Real, known for securing top players on free transfers, have made similar moves with Kylian Mbappé, David Alaba, and possibly Trent Alexander-Arnold soon.
Saliba, now one of Europe’s elite centre-backs at just 24 and nearing his 100th Arsenal appearance, has come a long way since joining in 2019. After loan spells and a slow start, he’s grown into a cornerstone of the team.
When asked about Saliba’s development, Arteta praised his progress: “Yes, and I think he’s on an incredible path. If you look at centre-backs in Europe at his age with what he’s already done, there aren’t many.”
Arteta also appeared to subtly emphasize the benefits of staying at Arsenal, suggesting the player is thriving in a supportive environment that brings out his strengths and helps manage weaknesses.
“There are a lot of factors,” Arteta added. “Firstly, him—his character, professionalism, and self-demand. Then the environment around him, especially his teammates who protect and elevate him. But there’s still more to come.”
His final words imply a challenge: Saliba may be great, but the journey isn’t over. Arsenal’s future looks promising—especially if they retain key players like him.