William Saliba addresses Arsenal future and states long-term ambition

The 23-year-old has two years left on his contract but want to ‘win trophies’ with Arsenal

William Saliba has restated his commitment to Arsenal, saying he wants to become the world’s best defender while playing for the Gunners.

The French centre-back has become a key element of Mikel Arteta’s squad. He has made 26 appearances this season as Arsenal maintain the best defensive record in the Premier League.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League second leg against PSV Eindhoven, which Arsenal lead 7-1, he said he has no plans to leave the Emirates despite having just two years left on his contract.

He said: “I want to win big things with Arsenal. If you leave this club without winning anything the fans will forget about you. I want to win big things here.”

Real Madrid are rumoured to be interested in his services, but convincing the player to leave will not be straightforward.

Saliba continued: “I’m really happy here... We have some years [left on the contract]. There is no rush at the minute.”

His goals for his Arsenal career are broad and ambitious. Aside from winning silverware, he wants to continue to develop as a player and is learning from the best in Gabriel Magalhaes, his partner at the back.

“I want to be one day the best defender in the world,” Saliba said. “I know I have to work a lot and to win trophies as well – but that’s my dream.

“I have to review my season, I have to work on my game. I have to watch especially my partner, Gabriel [Magalhães], who has been so, so good this season. I have to focus on myself and work more.”