WILLIAM SALIBA aims to attain legendary status at Arsenal, standing shoulder to shoulder with his center-back partner Gabriel.

Yet, the French defender acknowledges that they cannot achieve this esteemed position without winning the trophies that define the legendary players of the club’s past.

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The commanding presence of Saliba, 23, alongside 26-year-old Gabriel, has been crucial for Arsenal’s ongoing trophy ambitions.

They certainly display all the hallmarks of being amongst the finest defenders in Arsenal’s rich history.

The strength and agility of Sol Campbell, the commanding presence and leadership of Tony Adams, and the determination and enthusiasm of Martin Keown.

The duo also plays an important role off the pitch, participating in various “Arsenal in the Community” initiatives as they embrace their responsibility as role models and mentors.

However, when it comes to titles, that’s where the similarities end.

Adams is the only player in English football to win league titles across three different decades—1989, 1991, 1998, and 2002—his legacy is immortalized with a bronze statue outside the Emirates.

At 58, Adams celebrated the title alongside Steve Bould in 1998, then followed by Campbell and Keown in 2002, the latter playing vital roles during Arsenal’s unbeaten 2004 Invincibles season.

This current exceptional partnership must replicate such successes to secure their places in the history books.

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Saliba stated: “To be remembered as great defenders, we must win some trophies.”

“We have yet to achieve that, but we are committed to doing all we can to make it happen.”

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Saliba made a £27million move from Saint-Etienne as a teenager in 2019, subsequently going on loan to Nice and Marseille, eventually forming a robust partnership with Brazilian Gabriel—who also transferred for £27m from Lille in 2020—after they were paired by Mikel Arteta at the beginning of the 2022-23 season.

Saliba remarked: “From the very first match I played with him, I’ve enjoyed every moment.”

“He’s an outstanding defender who shines in various aspects.”

After falling short in the past two seasons—finishing behind Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City—this season presents a fresh challenge.

Arteta’s squad currently trails leaders Liverpool by seven points after 14 games, gearing up for their match across London against Fulham. Saliba asserted: “Anything is achievable.”

“The season is long, and we have learned that in the past couple of years. We just need to focus on our performance.”

“It’s only December, and a lot can happen.”

“While we can still improve, Mikel has greatly enhanced our confidence.”

Raised in the northeastern Paris suburb of Bondy, Saliba—who initially began his football journey as a striker—looked up to Gunners icon Thierry Henry during his formative years.

He even had the name of Arsenal’s all-time top scorer, who netted 228 goals for Arsenal, printed on the back of his shirt.

Despite this admiration, Saliba admits he never had the opportunity to meet any of his football idols while growing up.

This lack of interaction has ignited his passion to connect with fans through Arsenal in the Community programs.

Recently, Saliba set aside time to engage with year three students at Ashmount Primary School in Islington, located just under two miles from the Emirates.

Arsenal is deeply embedded in the local community, and Saliba, along with the entire team, has wholeheartedly embraced this ethos.

Taking a break from the competitive title race, he devoted the day to answering questions and participating in a reading session with the children, enjoying a kick-around that ended with a flurry of hugs and high-fives.

Saliba shared: “As a child, I didn’t have that chance, so I’m pleased to give back and do it. I know the difference we can make in the lives of these kids.”

“We’ve all been there when we were younger. We know that when you love football, you want to see players like us.”

“Since I’ve been here, I’ve noticed we take part in many community activities with the kids.”

“I genuinely enjoy these activities, and it’s essential to stay connected with our local community.”

“We are delighted to contribute to these initiatives. Their support motivates us immensely, and we bring that energy onto the pitch every time.”

Arsenal’s second-choice goalkeeper Neto—who has yet to make his debut for the club since joining on loan from Bournemouth this summer—joined Saliba at the community event.

The 35-year-old Brazil international remarked: “It’s important because football revolves around community and passion.”

“The community plays a critical role in sustaining football’s passion, and I truly value that.”

“When we connect with children through such activities, it’s so wonderful. We can remember our own experiences of being near players; it’s a dream come true for them.”

“As a father myself, I believe these connections to the community elevate the experience.”