William Saliba: Arsenal must win something if we want to be remembered

William Saliba insists this generation of Arsenal stars must “win something” to be remembered alongside the legendary names that have graced the iconic red and white jersey of the Gunners.

Since making his debut for Mikel Arteta’s side in 2022, Saliba has been a rock at the heart of Arsenal’s defence. His calming presence and defensive solidity have played a key role in the Gunners conceding just 94 goals in the Premier League over the past two and a half seasons — the fewest in the league during that time.

However, despite their impressive performances, Arsenal have fallen short in their quest for the Premier League title over the last two seasons, with Manchester City proving to be their stumbling block on both occasions.

For Saliba, who has only a pair of Community Shield trophies to his name — often dismissed as little more than glorified friendlies — the wait for meaningful silverware continues. This, despite Arsenal’s clear standing as one of England’s elite teams in recent years.

While his commanding displays have made him a firm fan favourite, including among the UAE-based supporters club that gathers weekly to watch matches, Saliba knows that greatness is measured in trophies.

To earn a place alongside Arsenal icons like Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, and Tony Adams, he believes the current squad must cross the finish line.

“I think we are so close (to winning titles) because we have a good team and manager,” Saliba said during a meet-and-greet event at the Ritz-Carlton Dubai, where Gulf News was in attendance.

“The last two seasons, we were close to winning the title, but unfortunately, we didn’t. We know we are on the way. We just need to keep going like this — I’m sure if we keep going like this, we will win something.

“We have to win something if we want to be remembered by the fans when we retire.”

Arsenal have been in Dubai since last week, taking advantage of a gap in their schedule after an FA Cup third-round exit at the hands of Manchester United.

The team is hoping the warmer climate will provide a much-needed reset, similar to their midseason camp in Dubai last year. That stint at the NAS Sports Complex sparked a remarkable 11-match unbeaten streak, 10 of which were victories.

Arsenal ultimately lost just one of their final 18 league games but fell short of the title to Manchester City on the final day of the season.

A similar surge will be essential if Arsenal are to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool this campaign. Arne Slot’s side currently sits six points clear of the Gunners and has a game in hand.

Champions League or plain rice?

In addition to their domestic ambitions, Arsenal are also chasing a first-ever Champions League triumph this season.

After finishing third in the league phase, the three-time Premier League champions bypassed the knockout phase play-off round, earning a direct ticket to the last 16.

During the meet-and-greet, one young fan took the opportunity to challenge Saliba with a cheeky proposal: win the Champions League, but the cost is eating plain rice for the rest of his life.

“I’ll eat whatever you want!” Saliba responded with a grin. “

If I win the Champions League, you can give me whatever you want - that’s no problem.”

Arsenal will depart Dubai on Wednesday to prepare for their Premier League clash with Leicester City on Saturday. A victory could see them close the gap on Liverpool, who face Wolves on Sunday.