Saliba explains reasons to commit future to Arsenal despite Madrid interest

William Saliba has ended speculation over his future by signing a new long-term contract with Arsenal, keeping him at the Emirates Stadium until 2030. 

The French defender had attracted strong interest from Real Madrid, but his decision signals a firm commitment to the Gunners as they continue their push for silverware.

Madrid had been monitoring Saliba since his Premier League breakthrough, but the 24-year-old explained that outside offers were never a distraction. 

“I was not thinking about clubs from the outside. I wanted to stay here for more years. I was not focused on the other clubs. I’m focused on my club,” he said after penning his new deal.

Saliba also addressed comparisons to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who recently left Liverpool for Madrid. He admitted that while the England defender had already collected major trophies before moving to Spain, his own unfinished business at Arsenal was a driving factor. 

“I didn’t win anything here except the Community Shield. I couldn’t leave this club without giving something back. I want to stay here and win,” he said.

The extension is a major boost for Arsenal, who have made Saliba a cornerstone of their defensive structure under manager Mikel Arteta. 

His partnership with Gabriel Magalhães has been widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s strongest, and the Gunners see him as vital to their long-term ambitions.

Attention now shifts to Bukayo Saka, with the winger entering the final two years of his contract. 

According to reports, Arsenal are preparing a lucrative deal to secure the England international’s future, with the aim of making him one of the club’s highest earners alongside Saliba.

The Gunners’ contract progress comes at a pivotal time. Arsenal reduced the gap to league leaders Liverpool with a dramatic win over Newcastle last weekend and are preparing for their Champions League clash against Olympiacos on Wednesday. 

With key players tied down and momentum building, Arteta’s side is looking to translate stability off the pitch into long-awaited success on it.