French press have standout comment for Arsenal defender William Saliba after defeat to Spain

Follow us on Google Discover

Following a Lamine Yamal inspired Spain performance against France, the Euro 2024 tournament is now over for William Saliba.

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal scored an outrageous first half equaliser to swing the tie back in Spain’s favour after France had taken the lead through a Randal Kolo Muani header.

The 16-year-old’s wonder strike was followed by another bit of individual brilliance from Dani Olmo who smashed the ball in past Mike Maignan, with the help of Jules Kounde who deflected the shot into his own goal.

For William Saliba, his tournament in Germany is over and the French defender will now prepare for another season at Arsenal.

Saliba praised for international performances

Despite the manner in which France were eliminated from the competition in Germany, Saliba received some praise from the French media for his performances throughout.

Saliba had never really been given a chance in the France first team under Didier Deschamps with the options at Les Blues’ disposal deemed as better than the Arsenal ace.

However, based on last season for the Gunners, Saliba had to play a key part in this tournament after what was another stellar campaign in the Premier League as the Gunners conceded the least amount of goals in the division.

In this morning’s edition of L’Equipe, which is notorious for being harsh with their players ratings, were complimentary of Saliba but were less so of Mbappé who was awarded a 3/10 for his performance in the semi-final.

They handed Saliba a 6/10 rating and wrote of the defender: What should we remember from his match? His header back into the middle towards Olmo (2-1, 25th)? Or his effective bursts into the feet of the Olmo-Morata duo? Both.

“Attentive, he put impact into his interventions and cut off a few cross situations, notably in front of Morata (12th). He was, over the duration of the match, the most reliable defender.“

Saliba could be key for Arsenal and France going forward

During the 2022/23 campaign, which was largely considered Saliba’s breakout in the Premier League, international chances were at a minimum.

However, after this European Championship, it is time that Saliba becomes the main man for Les Blues and it is imperative he starts for his national team going forward.

For Arsenal, Saliba has already established himself as the first choice option and he has become one of the best defenders in the division, perhaps on a similar level to that of Virgil Van Dijk.