Arsenal fans will be glad to hear that one of their team's key starters has officially been tied down to a new long-term deal.
After reports emerged of an imminent renewal last week, Arsenal confirmed on Tuesday morning (September 30) that defender William Saliba has signed a new five-year contract at the club.
The Frenchman's previous deal was set to run out at the end of the following campaign, but now he is set to remain in a red and white shirt until at least the end of the 2029/30 season.
La Liga giants Real Madrid were reportedly one of a few clubs monitoring Saliba's situation prior to the player's new extension being sealed, but it is now clear that the centre-back views his long-term future at the Emirates Stadium.
Saliba's rise to becoming one of the top players in his position in world football has been a gradual one as patience was required early on in his time with The Gunners.
After joining Arsenal from Saint-Etienne in 2019, the defender completed three loan spells in his native country before only making his professional debut for Mikel Arteta's side in the 2022/23 season.
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Saliba reacts to penning new long-term deal with The Gunners
Upon his new deal being confirmed, Saliba expressed how he is feeling after extending his stay with Arsenal.
"I feel proud of myself because I first signed in 2019, and now in 2025, I'm still here to extend my contract. I'm so happy," the 24-year-old told official club channels.
The French international then touched on why he is choosing to remain with the Premier League side for the foreseeable future.
"I feel at home. We have a good team, we have a good squad, we have good staff. The coach is perfect for me, so it's the best place to be," he explained.
"I enjoy every day when I have the chance to wear this shirt. I try to give everything, and now I’ll give even more to this club and to the fans."
Saliba then praised Arteta and revealed why the Arsenal manager can continue to be key for his development on the pitch.
"The boss is one of the best coaches in the world. He has helped me a lot. I think I haven’t reached my peak. I have things to improve, and I know that the coach will help me to become one of the best defenders in the world and win trophies."
Saliba will be hoping his fourth season as a regular for his current team will result in winning silverware and that Arsenal can establish themselves as one of the most dominant sides in Europe.
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