Iconic former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes that two Arsenal stars are amongst the best five in the world.
A number of Arsenal players could arguably be considered world-class.
Legendary former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes Bukayo Saka is “world-class.” Club captain Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice could both also be arguably considered in that category.
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta has built a remarkably impressive defensive unit. No side in the top flight of English football conceded fewer goals this season, as the Gunners saw their net breached just 29 times in 38 games.
William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are both vital to this solidity. The centre-back duo were both in imperious form all season, and are well-suited to playing alongside one another. Gabriel is a fearsome competitor, who bullies opponents and is willing to get stuck into every physical battle. Meanwhile, the Frenchman relies upon his composure, pace, and ability to read the game to keep opponents at bay.
Rio Ferdinand lauds Arsenal pair William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes
Saliba made Arsenal history this season, as he became the first outfield player to ever play every minute of a Premier League campaign for the North London club. Despite being just 23-years-old, he is already an astonishingly reliable, consistent, and mature defender.
However, Saliba believes that Gabriel is the best centre-back in the Premier League. An argument can be made for this being accurate, but there is little to choose between the two players.
Rio Ferdinand has now heaped praise on the Arsenal duo. As reported by GiveMeSport, the former Manchester United man has now named the five centre-backs that he believes to currently be the best on offer in world football. Both Saliba and Gabriel made his top five, alongside Liverpool icon Virgil van Dijk, Real Madrid star Antonio Rudiger, and Manchester City ace John Stones.
What Arsenal duo William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes still have to prove
On the subject of Saliba, Ferdinand said: “He’s been brilliant in the Premier League.”
However, the 45-year-old also added that Saliba: “Didn’t go too far in the Champions League.”
The next step for Arteta’s side, and for Saliba and Gabriel as well, is to show that they can seriously compete for major continental honours. The Gunners reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League this season, before being eliminated by Bayern Munich.
Arsenal will be aiming to go deeper into the tournament next season. Keeping Saliba and Gabriel fit and firing on all cylinders will be key to the club’s chances of achieving this aim.