William Saliba has ended months of speculation over his future by signing a new long-term contract with Arsenal, the club confirmed on Tuesday.
According to reports, the France international centre-back’s new deal runs until 2030, as both the player and the Premier League club continue their push to end a two-decade title drought.
“I feel proud and at home” – Saliba on Committing to Arsenal
Speaking after putting pen to paper, the 24-year-old is delighted at extending his stay in North London.
“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,” Saliba said.
“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.
“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.
“The boss is one of the best coaches in the world. He has helped me a lot, him and his staff, so I’m so happy to have them as a coach.”
“I’m 24 now, and I think I haven’t reached my peak. I have a lot of things to improve, a lot of things to give to this team, and I know that the coach and the staff will help me to become the best, or one of the best, defenders in the world and win trophies.”
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Saliba Reveals why he Turned Down Madrid for Arsenal
Saliba’s contract extension comes despite strong interest from Real Madrid, who successfully lured Trent Alexander-Arnold away from Liverpool this summer.
Asked why he did not follow the same path, Saliba was clear about his ambitions:
“He won some titles with Liverpool, with me I didn’t win anything here except the Community Shield.”
“I want to stay here and win a lot of trophies. I love this club, I couldn’t leave this club without giving something back, I’ve won nothing. I want to stay here and win.”
His decision is a significant boost to Mikel Arteta’s side, who are determined to win their first Premier League title since 2004.
Saliba has formed one of the league’s most formidable defensive pairings alongside Gabriel Magalhães, who signed a new deal himself earlier this year, keeping him at the club until 2029.
From Doubts to Defensive Pillar
Saliba’s journey at Arsenal has been one of resilience and development.
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He joined the Gunners in 2019 from Saint-Étienne for £27 million ($36.6m).
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Loan spells followed at Saint-Étienne, Nice, and Marseille, where he was named Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year.
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Since returning, he has cemented his place as a starter, making 140 appearances to date.
Berta: “He’s one of the best in the world”
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta praised the defender’s growth and commitment.
“We’re so happy that William has committed his future to us to be part of what we’re building here,” Berta said.
“In the last three seasons, William has become an incredible defender whose composure, intelligence and physical presence make him one of the best in the world.”
“He will continue his development with Arsenal to reach new heights.
“His consistency, maturity, and ability to influence matches will continue to be a big asset for us and we’re looking forward to many more great performances from him at the heart of our defence.”
