William Saliba has committed his future to Arsenal, after signing a new five-year deal that keeps him at the club until 2030.
Saliba, 24, had entered the final two years of his contract and had attracted interest from Spanish champions Real Madrid, who were keen on making a move next summer.
The French defender becomes the third Arsenal player to extend their contract at the club in recent weeks, after defensive partner Gabriel Malgahaes and teenage defender Myles Lewis-Skelly.
“I feel proud of myself because I first signed in 2019, and now in 2025, I’m still here to extend my contract. I’m so happy,” Saliba revealed.
“I feel at home. We have a good team, we have a good squad, we have good staff. The coach is perfect for me, so it’s the best place to be.
“I enjoy every day when I have the chance to wear this shirt. I try to give everything, and now I’ll give even more to this club and to the fans.
Saliba initially joined Arsenal in 2019 from French club Saint-Etienne in a £27 million deal, but had to wait until the 2022/23 season to make his debut for the club.
He has formed a formidable defensive partnership with Gabriel, becoming one of the best defensive pairs in the history of the Premier League.
The 24-year-old has gone on to make 140 appearances for the Gunners and featured in all 38 league matches in the 2023/24 season, while he missed only three matches last season due to injury.
“The boss is one of the best coaches in the world. He has helped me a lot, him and his staff, so I’m so happy to have them as a coach. I’m 24 now, and I think I haven’t reached my peak”, the Frenchman added.
“I have a lot of things to improve, a lot of things to give to this team, and I know that the coach and the staff will help me to become the best, or one of the best, defenders in the world and win trophies.”
Saliba’s renewal is a huge boost for Mikel Arteta’s side, as they pursue a first league title since the Invincibles in 2004.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
