Arsenal had an outstanding campaign, and even though they did not win the title, they made it clear that they are one of the best teams in the country.
Mikel Arteta’s side had the best defensive record whilst also producing incredible attacking numbers, and the record at the back saw David Raya win the Golden Glove.
The entire back four deserves credit for their strong displays this season, and William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have received a lot of praise.
Gabriel was one of Arsenal’s most-improved players, whilst Saliba continued performing to a consistently high level, and the Frenchman has now been praised by former Premier League centre-back Rio Ferdinand.
Rio Ferdinand admits William Saliba is the best centre-back in Premier League
In a video clip with GOAL, Ferdinand was asked to stay silent until he heard the name of the best centre-back in the Premier League, and after going through quite an extensive list, he then chose Saliba as the best in the country.
Given that this meant Saliba was selected ahead of John Stones, Gabriel and Ruben Dias, it is certainly a high endorsement from Ferdinand.
Is William Saliba the best centre-back in the Premier League?
Whilst ‘best’ may be too subjective a term to judge centre-backs on, Saliba certainly has a case that he is the most well-rounded option out of everyone.
The 23-year-old is dominant on the air, quick, and is exceptional on the ball, more so than Gabriel, who is perhaps more physically dominant but not as strong with the ball at his feet.
The £27m centre-back is continuing to grow, and whilst many Arsenal fans would argue that Gabriel had the better campaign, it is the younger of the partnership who is perhaps more important.
Arsenal’s title challenge fell apart a year ago because Saliba picked up a season-ending injury, and it became clear that he is one of, if not Arsenal’s most crucial player.
Stones and Dias were previously regarded as two of the best defenders in the league, but Saliba and Gabriel have perhaps now overtaken them.