Former footballer Michael Owen has expressed admiration for the emerging talent of Arsenal’s young defender, William Saliba, predicting that he could win the Ballon d’Or in the future.
At 22 years old, Saliba has already made a significant impact, establishing himself as one of the standout defenders in the Premier League.
Owen, known for his own successful career in football, shared his thoughts on Saliba’s potential during an interview with Premier League Productions.
He praised Saliba as a “great find” for Arsenal, highlighting the considerable talent and promise the young player possesses.
Despite joining Arsenal in 2019 for a substantial £27 million, Saliba faced challenges in gaining regular playing time, particularly after the managerial transition from Unai Emery to Mikel Arteta.
However, instead of dwelling on limited opportunities, Saliba embarked on loan spells that proved pivotal for his development.
These experiences allowed him to refine his skills and mature as a player, shaping him into the formidable talent he is today.
Owen emphasized Saliba’s versatility and potential, comparing him to defensive powerhouses like Virgil van Dijk. Saliba’s blend of skill, athleticism, and tactical acumen positions him as a player with the potential to achieve legendary status in the footballing world.
Despite early setbacks in his Arsenal career, Saliba’s perseverance, coupled with the club’s patience, has paid off.
As Arsenal contends for success in the Premier League, Saliba’s role becomes increasingly crucial.
If he contributes to leading the team to glory, his standing within the footballing community is expected to rise, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier defenders.
According to Owen, Saliba’s trajectory could even lead to him winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or in the future, placing him in the esteemed company of players like Karim Benzema and Virgil van Dijk who achieved that honor.
