‘It shows the power of this club’ – Arteta on French-Cameroonian William Saliba’s new Arsenal deal despite Madrid interest

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says William Saliba’s decision to extend his contract at the Emirates proves the club’s pulling power, despite reported interest from Real Madrid.

Saliba, born in France but of Cameroonian heritage, has grown into one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders since returning from loan spells in Ligue 1.

At 24, he has become a vital part of Arsenal’s backline, with his composure, athleticism and distribution making him central to the team’s ambitions at home and in Europe.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Olympiacos, Arteta could not hide his delight at tying down a player who has been integral to Arsenal’s resurgence.

“Big news, very happy. Congratulations to Will, he thoroughly deserves his new contract. He has been phenomenal for the last few years and I am very happy to keep the spine of the team with us,” he said.

Reports in Spain suggested Real Madrid were monitoring Saliba closely, but the French-Cameroonian defender opted to commit his long-term future to Arsenal.

For Arteta, the decision highlights the growing stature of the club under his leadership.

“More than the length of the contract, we love the player. You can understand that some players have a dream.

“Some of them want to play in the Premier League, some of them want to play for Arsenal and others want to play in a different country for a different club, and you have to respect that.

“We have been really lucky but it also shows the power of this football club and how much people love it and want to come here. Even when players have the opportunity to go somewhere else, they want to come here.”

Arsenal face Olympiacos next, aiming to build on a strong European record that has seen them win their last 13 home games in the group stages.