Kylian Mbappe Hails Arsenal Star as One of the Premier League's Best

Kylian Mbappe has praised Arsenal defender William Saliba, ranking him among the best centre-backs in the Premier League. Over the past two seasons, Saliba has been instrumental for Mikel Arteta's side, contributing significantly to their consecutive second-place finishes in the league.

The 23-year-old was Arsenal’s standout performer last season in key defensive metrics, leading in possessions won in the middle and defensive thirds. He also ranked among the top three for clearances, headed clearances, and aerial duels won. Saliba's exceptional form helped Arsenal achieve the Premier League’s best defensive record, conceding just 29 goals and securing 18 clean sheets—five more than any other team.

Saliba and Mbappe are currently teammates in a strong French squad at the European Championships in Germany. Despite his dominance in the Premier League, Saliba has found it challenging to secure a regular starting spot at the international level, earning only 15 caps with nine starts.

In March, France's head coach Didier Deschamps commented on Saliba's mixed performances for the national team, noting his limited game time and inconsistent displays. However, Mbappe has shown strong support for Saliba, emphasizing his importance to Arsenal and his potential for the French national team.

“This season, he has become a very important player for Arsenal and is among the best centre-backs in the Premier League,” Mbappe told Ouest-France (via talkSPORT). The forward, who is set to join Real Madrid this summer, added: “He is starting to get minutes with us. It’s now up to him to find his place. For me, he has all the qualities to, in time, be a starter with Les Bleus.”

France will begin their Euro 2024 campaign against Austria in Düsseldorf on Monday, in a group that also includes the Netherlands and Poland, marking one of the tournament’s most challenging draws.