‘I was not focused on them’ – French-Cameroonian William Saliba on Arsenal extension amid Madrid interest

William Saliba has explained his decision to commit his long-term future to Arsenal despite strong interest from Real Madrid, insisting he never allowed outside speculation to distract him and citing Trent Alexander-Arnold as part of his reasoning.

The 24-year-old defender, who was born in France but of Cameroonian heritage, has signed a new contract that ties him to the Emirates until the summer of 2030.

Madrid were widely reported to be weighing a move for Saliba, hoping to replicate their acquisition of Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool earlier this year, but the French international opted to remain in North London.

Saliba admitted he wanted to focus solely on Arsenal rather than be swayed by transfer talk. “To be honest, I was not thinking about clubs from the outside. I wanted to stay here for more years. I was not focused on the other clubs. I’m focused on my club,” he said.

When pressed on why he did not follow Alexander-Arnold to Spain, Saliba pointed to unfinished business in England.

“He won some titles with Liverpool, with me I didn’t win anything here except the Community Shield,” he said. “I want to stay here and win a lot of trophies. I love this club, I couldn’t leave this club without giving something back. I’ve won nothing. I want to stay here and win.”

The centre-back’s extension represents a major boost for Mikel Arteta’s side, who are seeking to cement their status among Europe’s elite.

With Saliba anchoring the backline, Arsenal believe they have secured one of the best young defenders in the world for the peak of his career.