Official: Arsenal confirm William Saliba has signed a new long term contract as William Saliba explains signing new Arsenal deal after Real Madrid contact…

Official: Arsenal has announced that William Saliba has signed a new long-term contract, as he discusses his decision to renew with Arsenal following interest from Real Madrid.

Arsenal’s strong start to the new season has been further enhanced by the news that William Saliba has committed to a new long-term contract.

The French international’s previous contract was set to expire in 2027, but he has now extended his commitment to the club until 2030, as the Gunners sought to secure his future amid interest from Real Madrid.

Under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, Saliba has established himself as one of the top defenders in Europe and is eager to continue his development under the Spanish coach.

‘When you sign, you dream of playing many games, but it comes so quickly,’ he remarked. ‘Before I signed, I didn’t realize I would be playing so many matches, so it’s great, and I want to play even more.

‘When I signed, I returned to Saint-Etienne, and upon my return, I became a starter.

A lot has happened since then, and I’m incredibly proud of my journey. I never gave up, even during challenging times.

‘Of course, I wanted to play immediately, but I didn’t anticipate it would be this rewarding. I performed well, we nearly won the league in my first season, and we came close again the following season.

I’m content now, but not entirely satisfied because we need to achieve more. We must win titles, as that is our goal and the club’s ambition.

‘The manager is one of the best coaches globally. He has been instrumental in my development, along with his staff, and I’m thrilled to have them as my coaches. I’m 24 now, and I believe I have yet to reach my full potential.

‘I have many areas to improve upon and much to contribute to this team, and I trust that the coach and the staff will assist me in becoming one of the best defenders in the world and winning trophies.’

Reflecting on his choice to dedicate the prime years of his career to Arsenal, he stated: ‘I feel proud of myself because I first signed in 2019, and now in 2025, I’m still here to extend my contract.

I feel at home. We have a great team, a solid squad, and excellent staff. The coach is ideal for me, making this the perfect place to be.

I cherish every day I get to wear this shirt. I strive to give my all, and now I’m committed to giving even more to this club and its fans.

Saliba’s journey at Arsenal has been on a steady rise since he made his long-anticipated debut three years ago, although his initial time at the club was anything but easy.

After signing at the age of 17, he was promptly loaned back to Saint-Etienne, then sent out again to Nice and Marseille before he was considered ready to face the challenges of Premier League football.

Despite a rocky beginning, Saliba has consistently fostered a strong connection with the club’s supporters and is determined to repay their unwavering trust.

He expressed: ‘I share a unique bond with them, because even during my loan spells, when I wasn’t playing here, they would reach out to me with messages saying: ‘one day, you will play for this club, don’t give up.’ I will always remember this.

‘Thank you for everything, thank you for your support. We understand their expectations, and we will give our utmost, even more than last season, to deliver what they desire.