Arsenal defender William Saliba has signed a new five-year contract with the Premier League club, extending his stay until 2030.
The 24-year-old France international, who joined Arsenal from Saint-Étienne in 2019, had been linked with Real Madrid but opted to continue his career at the Emirates. His previous deal was due to expire in 2027.
“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,” Saliba said on Tuesday. “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 established himself as a regular in Mikel Arteta’s side during the 2022/23 season after loan spells at Saint-Étienne, Nice, and Marseille, where he won Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year. Since then, he has made 140 appearances for the club and formed a strong defensive partnership with Gabriel Magalhães, who also extended his deal earlier this year until 2029.
Arteta described the centre-back as a vital figure in Arsenal’s squad. “William is loved by all the players and staff, and that speaks volumes about his character, commitment and attitude every day,” the manager said. “Since joining us, William has grown so much, embraced responsibility, and created a strong connection with our supporters and everyone at the club.”
Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta said the new contract was a major boost. “In the last three seasons, William has become an incredible defender whose composure, intelligence and physical presence make him one of the best in the world,” Berta noted. “His consistency, maturity, and ability to influence matches will continue to be a big asset for us.”
Saliba himself believes the deal will help him reach new heights. “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,” he said.
Former England international Conor Coady also hailed the development, calling it a relief for Arsenal. “Whenever I have played against William Saliba, he has played way beyond his years,” Coady said. “To have these players in the Premier League is huge. For him to want to stay at Arsenal is brilliant for him and the football club.”
The deal comes at a crucial moment in Arsenal’s campaign. The Gunners sit second in the Premier League table, two points behind leaders Liverpool after six matches, as they push to win their first league title since 2004.
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