Arsenal star William Saliba is now leading all players in Europe’s top leagues after he achieved one feat against Bayern Munich on Tuesday night.
The Arsenal defence had a rare off-night in the first-leg of their Champions League quarter-final encounter with Bayern Munich.
The scale of the occasion seemed to effect Gunners’ rearguard as they were guilty of a couple of errors which cost the North London club dearly.
It is perhaps unsurprising that there was nervousness amongst Mikel Arteta’s ranks on Tuesday. After all, Arsenal have not competed at this stage in Europe’s elite club competition for 14 years.
None of the Arsenal starting back four, or goalkeeper David Raya, have any previous experience of a Champions League quarter-final. Whilst Ben White was able to stand out with a courageous display, the likes of William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Jakub Kiwior all looked shaky at times in the first half.
William Saliba and Arsenal defence struggle against Bayern Munich
The Arsenal defence has been in exceptional form this season. The partnership between Gabriel and Saliba has been described as the best in the Premier League.
The Frenchman will know that he did not produce his best against the German giants on this occasion. His most costly error occurred around the half-hour mark at the Emirates Stadium when he brought down Leroy Sane in the box to concede a penalty. Former Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane then converted from the spot.
Thanks to goals from Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard, Arsenal will travel to the Allianz Arena still level in the tie as this first-leg ended in a 2-2 draw. Arteta will know, though, that a win was on the cards for his side were it not for their defensive lapses.
Saliba and his defensive colleagues will need to be far better in the second-leg in Germany on April 17th.
William Saliba now leading Europe in one category
The 23-year-old, fitness permitting, is certain to start that game. He has been a fixture in the Arsenal team this season.
His start against Bayern Munich marked his 42nd of the season. As reported by Squawka, Saliba has now started more games so far this season than any other outfield player in the top five European leagues.
The 13-cap France international is clearly trusted by Arteta, and for good reason. He has proven himself to be an elite-level defender. Now is the time for him to show his class on the biggest stage.
He was far better in the second half on Tuesday night, and he will need to be at his best from the off next time out in the Champions League.
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