William Saliba has signed a new five-year contract at Arsenal until June 2030.
Saliba previously signed a new contract n July 2023 until June 2027 but the Frenchman has now signed terms on a fresh contract, which will keep him at the Emirates Stadium until June 2030 instead.
The 24-year-old has scored seven goals in 140 appearances since his arrival in July 2019 from Saint-Etienne, although he was immediately loaned back to his former team for 2019-20 season.
Speaking to arsenal.com following confirmation of his new contract, the 24 year-old French defender revealed that he felt “proud” to commit his future to the club, having spent 18 months on loan to Nice then Marseille between January 2021 – May 2022 amidst early adaption issues to English football.
“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 consequently felt that his loan spells back in France during the early phase of his time at Arsenal helped him develop his game, but is eager to finally win the Premier League with Arsenal after three seasons as runner-up.
“When I signed, I went back to Saint-Etienne, and I came back and became a starter so a lot of things have happened, but I’m so proud of my journey. I never gave up, even in the tough moments.
“Of course, I wanted to play straight away, but I didn’t expect that it would be as good as it was. I played well, we almost won the league in the first season, and we almost won the league the season after as well. I’m happy now, but not 100% happy because we have to do more. We have to win titles, because it’s what we want, what the club wants.”
Saliba also praised manager, Mikel Arteta for his coaching and believes that he can reach his peak under the Spaniard.
“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. 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.”
Arteta added: “William is loved by all the players and staff, and that speaks volumes about his character, commitment and attitude every day. Since joining us, William has grown so much, embraced responsibility, and has created a strong connection with our supporters and everyone at the club.
“We know there is still so much to come from him and will continue to work together to keep improving with the clear ambition of winning major trophies.”
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