Marcel Desailly, the 1998 World Cup-winning France legend, believes William Saliba is currently the best center-back in the world and expects him to play for Real Madrid one day — just not anytime soon.
France looks scary in training and fans are wondering if they are the favorite
Speaking to SportsCasting, Desailly suggested that a move to Madrid could eventually be in Saliba’s future, although Arsenal remains his immediate focus.
“Yes, absolutely. I hope William Saliba wears the Real Madrid shirt one day. He still has a contract with Arsenal for the next few years, but he’s young, so why not?”
Desailly added that Real Madrid remains a dream destination for many elite players.
“The door is open, and all the best players want to play for Real Madrid at some point in their careers. The door is open. But not now. Not now. He is the best center-back in the world today.”
“Gabriel Is Only There Because of Saliba”
Desailly also explained why he rates Saliba above every other defender in world football, including Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.
“Who do I think is the best center-back in the world? It’s not Virgil van Dijk. We know his level and he’s a great defender, but at times he’s shown some weaknesses. That may also be linked to his previous injury.”
The former France star believes Saliba stands above the rest despite some injury concerns.
“I would put William Saliba at the top. Even with some back issues, he’s among the candidates for the best center-back in the world. Saliba is definitely one of the very best.”
Desailly went even further when discussing Saliba’s Arsenal teammate Gabriel Magalhães.
“Gabriel is only there because of Saliba, so Gabriel is not among the candidates. Who else can we mention? There’s nobody at Manchester United. Chelsea don’t have anyone at that level. Inter Milan don’t either.”
