Arsenal’s current success, especially their strong defensive form, is in part thanks to their centre-back William Saliba.

It’s now been revealed that before completing his move to Arsenal, the Frenchman rejected an offer from North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

The choice made by the defender back in 2019, amid interest from other top clubs including Manchester United, has been crucial to the Gunners’ recent achievements.

• William Saliba rejected Tottenham Hotspur and chose Arsenal in 2019, becoming a vital part of the defence.
• Despite his absence with injury last season, Saliba’s impact on the Arsenal backline has been immense.
• Other clubs, including Manchester United, were also interested, but Saliba’s love for Arsenal as a boy played a significant role in his decision.

Saliba’s choice pays off

Back in 2019, William Saliba was not only attracting the attention of Arsenal, but also other Premier League sides like Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

According to talkSPORT, Spurs explored a move for the Frenchman after he broke into the Saint-Etienne side the previous season.

Childhood allegiance to Arsenal

However, Saliba’s mind was made up to join Arsenal, having supported the club since he was a boy.

His admiration for Arsenal, fostered through connections with French legends like Thierry Henry and Robert Pires, guided his decision.

“I have a crush on Arsenal,” Saliba told L’Equipe in July 2020.

His love for the Gunners was so strong that even a late push from Tottenham failed to sway him from his desired path to the Emirates.

Saliba’s rise to the top

After a period of adjustment, which included loans to Nice and Marseille, Saliba’s dream of playing for Arsenal was finally fulfilled.

Under Mikel Arteta‘s management, he has become arguably the club’s best defender. He’s been compared to Raphael Varane and Virgil van Dijk, displaying qualities of a modern-day defender – quick, mobile, and superb on the ball.

His addition to Arsenal’s backline catalysed their title challenge, and his injury-induced absence last season was deeply felt, with the team crumbling towards the final stretch.

A critical decision in hindsight

Saliba’s decision to reject Spurs and other suitors in favour of Arsenal highlights the importance of personal connections and childhood dreams in professional football.

The defender’s allegiance to Arsenal has not only benefited his own career but also proved crucial for Arsenal’s rise from finishing outside the top four to becoming title contenders.

His long-term contract with the club ensures that Premier League strikers will have to contend with a tough defence for years to come.

It’s a scenario that could have looked very different had he chosen to go to Tottenham or Manchester United.