William Saliba decision surely silences Mikel Arteta doubters amid questions over his Arsenal future

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Plenty has been said about the direction of travel for Arsenal under Mikel Arteta, but perhaps William Saliba has shut all of that down.

The Gunners have been so close to landing the big prizes, finishing second in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons, while they were knocked out of the Champions League in the semi-finals last season.

Naturally, some questions have arisen surrounding Mikel Arteta, and whether he can get Arsenal over the line in the coming months and years ahead.

While there is differing faith placed in the manager, a recent decision from William Saliba has perhaps done all of the talking.

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William Saliba’s new Arsenal contract shows immense faith in Mikel Arteta’s project

After a mixed start to the season, Mikel Arteta has come under fire for being too defensive, with many questioning if he can take Arsenal to the next level.

With the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cup competitions still up for grabs, there is pressure on the manager to deliver and quickly.

Some of that, however, may well be more external noise than it feels internally at the club.

Perhaps what best demonstrates that is William Saliba’s new contract at Arsenal, which has just been agreed.

The Frenchman is prepared to sign a new five-year deal with the club, committing his future until 2030 in North London.

There were just under two years remaining on his current contract, and with Real Madrid’s interest in Saliba, it was clear he had options to leave soon if he wished.

However, the decision to sign a brand new deal quashes that.

At 24 years old, the centre-back has an opportunity to go and win trophies, playing at the highest level.

Clearly, he thinks the best place for that is at Arsenal and under Arteta’s project.

Perhaps that is the biggest sign yet that the squad has plenty of trust placed in the Spaniard and his ability to get them over the line, silencing some of the doubters in the process.

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William Saliba statistics at Arsenal so far

Despite his age, Saliba already has plenty of experience in senior football, something that he continues to build while at Arsenal.

In his partnership with Gabriel, there is a formidable duo, which will be the face of the Arsenal backline for years to come.

Saliba is now closing in on the 150 appearance landmark for the Gunners, a number that could be dwarfed in the years to come.

If he continues on his current trajectory, he could easily be one of the best defenders in the world.

For now, he has entrusted that development to Arteta.