Mikel Arteta “proud” of Arsenal duo William Saliba and Gabriel

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted he is “proud” of the chemistry that central defensive duo William Saliba and Gabriel have built during his time at the Gunners, as the duo continue to shine as one of the best partnerships in the world.

Arteta has done a fantastic job at the Emirates Stadium since his arrival in 2019 and one of the key factors to his success has been strengthening Arsenal’s defence over the past three seasons.

The Londoners were the best performing team defensively in the 2023/24 season, keeping 18 clean sheets in 38 Premier League games.

The current season has shown that their level has not dropped. They have not conceded a single goal in four of their first six games in all competitions. And the Gunners’ second-half performance against Man City on Sunday with just ten men underlined their defensive strength.

A key factor in this has been the performances of the central defending duo of Saliba and Gabriel. Arsenal’s defenders have developed into one of the best partnerships in the world and it is something Arteta is “proud” of.

Ahead of the Gunners’ EFL Cup clash with Bolton on Wednesday, the Spanish manager spoke about his central defensive duo.

“We believed that Saliba and Gabriel could be really good… but their level now is something incredible, unbelievable,” Arteta said via Fabrizio Romano. “That togetherness and chemistry is unique and really good. I’m proud of Gabriel and Saliba, I really am.”

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Arsenal’s defence will lead them to the Premier League title

If Arsenal win the Premier League this season, there is no doubt that their defence will play a huge part in their success, as it is without doubt the best defence in England at the moment.

The Gunners have great options in defence and behind them David Raya is performing at a very high level, which was clearly on display in the North London club’s last two games against Atalanta and Man City.

Arteta is rightly proud of his team’s defensive performance. After Sunday’s results, the Spanish coach is confident he can get the most out of his team this season.