Statistics reveal how William Saliba is Arsenal’s best player

William Saliba was one of the standout players for Arsenal in the recently ended Premier League season. The young French defender started 27 league games for the Gunners and was a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s side before he got injured in the last months of the campaign.

Saliba’s impact on Arsenal’s performance cannot be overstated. With him in the team, Arsenal had a win percentage of 78%, compared to just 46% without him. The Gunners also conceded fewer goals per game with Saliba in the side (0.9) than without him (1.6). In addition, they faced fewer shots per game with Saliba on the pitch (8.3) than when he was absent (10.7).

Saliba’s performances were particularly impressive given his age and relative lack of experience at this level. At just 20 years old, he showed maturity beyond his years and was a commanding presence at the heart of Arsenal’s defence.

Despite Saliba’s best efforts, however, Arsenal ultimately fell short in their bid to win the Premier League title this season. A defeat against Nottingham Forest in their 37th game week saw them lose ground on eventual champions Manchester City, who finished five points clear at the top of the table.

Nevertheless, there were plenty of positives to take from Arsenal’s season, not least Saliba’s emergence as one of their most promising young talents. With his combination of physicality, technical ability and tactical intelligence, he looks set to become a mainstay of Arteta’s side for years to come.

Looking ahead to next season, there is reason for optimism among Arsenal fans that they can mount another serious challenge for the Premier League title. With Saliba leading from the back and a talented squad around him, there is every chance that they can go one better and lift the trophy come May 2024.