Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes William Saliba is destined to become the best centre-back in world football once Virgil van Dijk steps aside, softfootball reports.
Saliba delivered another commanding performance as Arsenal defeated Manchester United 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium, even without his regular defensive partner Gabriel Magalhães. The French defender also capped his display by scoring the Gunners’ second goal.
Speaking about the 23-year-old, Ferdinand was full of praise for the Arsenal star.
“I think Saliba is going to be the best defender in the world. Saliba will be the best defender in the world when Virgil van Dijk gives up that post. As soon as that happens, it could be in a year, it could be three years.
“Whenever it’s going to be, I don’t see anyone else taking over. The only person who I think will rival him, and it will be close, is Leny Yoro.”
Ferdinand also highlighted Saliba’s dominance over United striker Rasmus Højlund, while calling on elite forwards to show greater aggression against top-class defenders.
“Rasmus Højlund is probably still trying to fight his way out of Saliba’s pocket after the Arsenal vs United game. It was like a man against a boy.
“I want to see Højlund improve in those one-v-one situations. I can say the same about Haaland. When Haaland comes up against a Van Dijk or a Saliba-type defender, I want to see him bully them.”
The former England defender concluded by praising Saliba’s complete skill set.
“Saliba looked clean, confident, classy, strong and elegant—everything you’d want in a centre-half. It’s great to see a young defender come into the Premier League and look so composed in one-v-one situations. If you’re going to be a top team, you need at least one defender who can handle anyone on the pitch.”
