Arsenal supporters have given their verdict on the performance William Saliba just produced for France at Euro 2024.
Arsenal defender William Saliba started for France as they took on their geographic neighbours Belgium in Dusseldorf on Monday.
In this first knockout round clash of Euro 2024 for either side, there was certainly a degree of cageyness. Frank eventually edged the tie 1-0, thanks to a late, deflected winner.
Despite the vast quantities of talent in their squad, France have failed to light up this tournament so far. However, Saliba has certainly grown into the competition.
Ahead of the tournament, there were doubts that the 23-year-old would get much game time in Germany at all. Didier Deschamps has been critical of Saliba in the past, and has previously been reluctant to use the Gunners’ centre-back.
However, the Arsenal star has been in the national team’s starting XI since the very beginning of the tournament, and has improved his performances with each passing match.
Arsenal fans react to William Saliba’s performance for France v Belgium at Euro 2024
Taking to X during the match and after the final whistle, many Arsenal fans had a lot to say about Saliba as he and his compatriots went head-to-head with Belgium.
One supporter said: “Saliba has been immense for France. He’s been calm and calculating. Has put one foot wrong. I don’t think any defender comes close to his level at the moment.”
Another impressed fan asked: “Is Saliba world class or are we still pretending Arsenal can’t have world class players?”
One supporter stated: “In games like this you can really tell why Saliba is second to only Van Dijk.”
One exclaimed: “Saliba so good I can’t believe he plays for my club man.”
Saliba shining on the biggest stage
Over the last two seasons with Arsenal, Saliba has scarcely put a foot wrong. Mikel Arteta has invested his full faith in the young defender, and has been rewarded for this with consistent excellence from the player.
Saliba proved he was a big game player for Arsenal with a number of dominant performances against elite opposition last season. Now he is shining on the biggest stage of all.