Deschamps takes shot at Arsenal as he explains biggest issue for William Saliba
France boss Didier Deschamps has suggested that William Saliba ’s lack of competition at Arsenal may have harmed his international prospects.
The 22-year-old centre-back has impressed for the Gunners over the past couple of seasons after establishing an impressive defensive partnership alongside Gabriel Magalhaes. It signals a marked reversal in fortunes for the Frenchman in North London.
Saliba was immediately sent back to Saint-Etienne after becoming an Arsenal player, while he also had loan spells with Nice and Marseille in his home country before eventually being handed an opportunity by Mikel Arteta.
His impressive form has seen him force himself into international contention. Saliba has now won ten caps for France under the stewardship of Didier Deschamps.
But the 2018 World Cup winning coach has warned Saliba that he is not guaranteed to start for his nation, unlike at Arsenal, where, he claims, the competition is lower. The Gunners are currently not blessed at centre-back options, with Jakub Kiwior the only fit recognised centre-back capable of deputising for the side.
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Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash with Gibraltar, Deschamps said: “He [Saliba] hasn’t had a lot of game time with us. He is performing well for his club. At international level, he hasn’t always found himself in the best conditions in matches where I’ve rotated a lot.”
Deschamps added: “He isn’t in the same psychological situation with his club, where he doesn’t ask himself if he’ll play at the weekend. When he has game time with us, he tells himself he needs to play well because there are others behind him. He is not in a psychological situation that is the same as at his club. He has everything he needs to take the next step.”
Despite having only 50 Arsenal appearances to his name, Saliba has already made a huge impression. Former Gunner Ray Parlour has claimed that he could potentially become the greatest defender in the game.
France boss Didier Deschamps has explained why it's different for Saliba with France than Arsenal (Icon Sport via Getty Images)Who has been Arsenal's best player this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Speaking with NetBet Sports Betting, he said: "William Saliba is currently the best young defender in the world and can go on to be the best defender in the world. He has everything to get better and better.
"I remember Tony Adams when he was young – he might make quite a few mistakes, but he always seemed to rectify them. Saliba’s got his opportunity now and he's not let anybody down – Arsenal are very lucky to have him and he could become a club legend."
Following their showdown with Gibraltar at the weekend, France then round off their qualifying fixtures for next summer’s Euros against Greece. Les Bleus have already secured their spot at the tournament with a perfect record thus far.
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