All to know about Arsenal’s William Saliba: Stats, Net Worth, Biography, Wife, Family, Parents, and Football Career.
At just 22 years old, William Saliba has emerged as one of the most talented defenders in world football. The Frenchman has quickly become a key figure in Arsenal’s defense, impressing fans and critics alike with his exceptional skills, intelligence on the field, and composure. This article delves deep into the life, career, and future of the player fans have dubbed the “Rolls Royce” of defenders.
Profile Summary
- Full Name: William Alain André Gabriel Saliba
- Nickname: Rolls Royce
- Date of Birth: March 24, 2001
- Place of Birth: Bondy, France
- Nationality: French
- Ethnicity: Cameroonian
- Height: 1.92 m (6 ft 4 in)
- Current Team: Arsenal FC
- Club Jersey Number: 2
- Position: Centre Back
- Preferred Foot: Right
- Market Value: €80 million
- Marital Status: Unmarried
- Parents: Father – Brian Robertson; Mother – Name Unknown
- Instagram: w.saliba4
- Salary: €190,000 per week (2023-2027 contract)
Early Life and Family Background
William Alain André Gabriel Saliba was born on March 24, 2001, in Bondy, a suburb in the northeastern part of Paris, France. His early life was deeply influenced by his Cameroonian mother and Lebanese father. Growing up, Saliba’s passion for football was evident, and from a young age, he dreamt of playing for Arsenal, the club he adored.
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Family Influence
Saliba was raised in a middle-class family, and his parents played pivotal roles in his early development. While not much is publicly known about his mother, she was of Cameroonian descent and tragically passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. His father, Brian Robertson, a Lebanese man, was a supportive figure in his life but passed away early on, which left a profound impact on Saliba’s upbringing.
Saliba’s mother was a driving force in his career, nurturing his ambitions and guiding him toward his goals. His childhood photo, often seen on his social media, shows him sitting in his mother’s lap, reflecting the deep bond they shared.
William Saliba’s Football Career
Early Football Journey
Saliba’s football career began at a young age when he joined AS Bondy in 2008. He was just six years old, and his coach was none other than Wilfrid Mbappé, Kylian Mbappé’s father. It was here that Saliba honed his technical skills and developed a passion for defending. After six years at AS Bondy, he moved to FC Montfermeil, where he continued to grow as a player before eventually joining the youth academy of AS Saint-Étienne.
Saliba’s rise at Saint-Étienne was rapid. By the age of 17, he had already made his debut for the senior team. His commanding performances in defense caught the attention of several top clubs in Europe.
Joining Arsenal
In 2019, Arsenal secured William Saliba’s signature for a transfer fee of €30 million, signaling the club’s belief in his immense potential. However, to continue his development, Saliba was loaned back to AS Saint-Étienne for the 2019/20 season. Despite high expectations, he did not immediately integrate into Arsenal’s squad and was loaned out to OGC Nice and Marseille for further first-team experience.
Breakthrough at Arsenal
It wasn’t until the 2022/23 season that Saliba firmly established himself in Arsenal’s starting lineup. His ability to read the game, make decisive tackles, and maintain composure under pressure has made him one of the Premier League’s standout defenders. His performances were key in Arsenal’s challenge for the Premier League title during the 2022/23 season, where he consistently competed against some of the best attackers in the world, including Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah.
International Career with France
Saliba’s talent did not go unnoticed by the French national team. He made his senior debut for France in 2021 and quickly became a key part of Didier Deschamps’ plans. His rise in international football mirrors his club career, and he is now considered one of the top defensive prospects for France heading into future tournaments.
William Saliba’s Playing Style
Saliba’s playing style has been described as composed, aggressive, and intelligent. Known for his proactive defending and robust tackling, Saliba is also adept at passing, often starting attacks from the back. His towering height (6 ft 4 in) gives him an edge in aerial duels, making him a constant threat during set pieces. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has earned him comparisons to elite defenders like Virgil Van Dijk and John Stones.
William Saliba’s Net Worth and Salary
William Saliba’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million as of 2024, a figure that is expected to rise with his continued success on the field. In June 2023, Saliba signed a new four-year contract extension with Arsenal, which saw his weekly salary increase to €190,000. This contract, running until 2027, secures his place as one of Arsenal’s top earners, with an annual salary of approximately €9.88 million, excluding bonuses.
William Saliba’s Personal Life
Relationship Status
As of 2024, William Saliba is unmarried and has not publicly disclosed any romantic relationships. Despite various rumors circulating about his private life, Saliba has remained focused on his football career, choosing to keep his personal affairs away from the public eye.
The Leaked Video Controversy
In 2021, Saliba was involved in a scandal when a video emerged of him filming a French youth teammate in an explicit act. The incident led to a one-month suspension by the French Football Federation (FFF), and although Saliba did not face long-term repercussions, the incident garnered significant media attention at the time.
William Saliba’s Stats (2023/24 Season)
William Saliba has established himself as a defensive powerhouse in the Premier League. Below are some key stats from his 2023/24 season with Arsenal:
- Goals Conceded: 24
- Clean Sheets: 11
- Tackles: 28
- Interceptions: 20
- Ground Duels Won: 94
- Aerial Duels Won: 54
- Clearances: 53
- Shots Blocked: 11
- Goals Scored: 2
- Assists: 1
His defensive prowess is further highlighted by the fact that he was dribbled past only twice throughout the season, underscoring his consistency.
FAQs About William Saliba
1. What is William Saliba’s nationality?
William Saliba is French, born in Bondy, France, and he represents the French national team.
2. What is William Saliba’s net worth?
As of 2024, William Saliba’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
3. Who is William Saliba’s current club?
William Saliba plays for Arsenal FC, where he is a key defender.
4. What position does William Saliba play?
Saliba is a center-back, known for his proactive defending and tackling ability.
5. How tall is William Saliba?
William Saliba stands at 1.92 meters (6 ft 4 in) tall.
6. Does William Saliba have a girlfriend?
As of 2024, William Saliba is not publicly known to be in a romantic relationship.
7. What is William Saliba’s salary?
Saliba earns a weekly salary of €190,000 under his current contract with Arsenal, which runs until 2027.
8. How many goals has William Saliba scored?
Saliba scored 2 goals and provided 1 assist during the 2023/24 Premier League season.
9. Has William Saliba been involved in any controversies?
In 2021, Saliba was involved in a scandal related to a leaked explicit video, which led to a one-month suspension by the French Football Federation.
10. What youth teams did William Saliba play for?
Saliba started his football journey at AS Bondy before moving to FC Montfermeil and later joining AS Saint-Étienne.
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Conclusion
William Saliba’s journey from the streets of Bondy to becoming one of the most highly-regarded defenders in the world is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and natural talent. With a bright future ahead, both at Arsenal and with the French national team, Saliba is on the path to becoming one of the defining defenders of his generation. His market value, stats, and performances continue to rise, making him one of the most exciting talents to watch in world football.
