William Saliba Compared to Chelsea Icon by Former Arsenal Star Emmanuel Petit

• William Saliba has been compared to a Chelsea legend after another phenomenal display against the Blues on Sunday
• Saliba has been ever-present for the Gunners this season and has become an influential figure at the back
• Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit said the youngster has a bright future as he made the comparison

Emmanuel Petit has predicted that Arsenal defender William Saliba will soon emulate legendary Chelsea captain John Terry.

Saliba produced a wonderful performance for the Gunners against London rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge over the weekend, drawing critical acclaim from neutrals.

It is astonishing to learn that the French defender is only 21 years old and has been an ever-present player in Mikel Arteta's side in the Premier League this season.

Given the struggles Arsenal has had in the past with centre-backs, Saliba has become an important player for the Gunners. His partnership with Gabriel at the back has given Arteta's side a good foundation.

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Saliba compared to John Terry

Petit, who played under Arsene Wenger between 1997 and 2000 and won the Premier League and FA Cup Double in the 1997/98 season, has said the young centre-back has all the qualities to be like Terry.

“William Saliba is amazing. He has all the qualities to do the same as John Terry. He's very mature, came back to Arsenal with a lot of motivation, and he's improved a lot as a human being as well as a footballer," Petit said according to the Mirror.

With France coach Didier Deschamps naming the World Cup squad soon, it would be surprising not to see his name on the list. It also wouldn't be shocking to see him start in Qatar.

Saliba has appeared in every Premier League game for Arsenal this season and were it not for Arteta subbing him in the Nottingham Forest game, he would've played every minute in the league.

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Mikel Arteta praises William Saliba

Sports Brief earlier reported on Mikel Arteta praising William Saliba for an outstanding performance against Chelsea.

Arteta singled out four players for praise, hinting they made a difference for his side during the Stamford Bridge trip.

Saliba was a menace for Arsenal forwards, shutting down everything they threw at him.