In a remarkable turnaround that has stunned football pundits and fans alike, Arsenal defender William Saliba has completed his first-ever full Premier League season without succumbing to injury. The French centre-back, once plagued by fitness concerns, has emerged as the Gunners' defensive cornerstone under Mikel Arteta's meticulous management.
The Transformation: From Injury-Prone to Iron Man
Saliba's journey from frequently sidelined to ever-present represents one of the Premier League's most impressive physical transformations. The 23-year-old featured in every single minute of Arsenal's 38-game campaign, becoming only the fifth outfield player in the club's history to achieve this remarkable feat.
"Last season was completely different," Saliba revealed in an exclusive interview. "I had two big injuries, but this season I worked a lot in the gym and on my recovery. I was more professional in everything - my food, my sleep, everything."
Arteta's Revolutionary Approach
Mikel Arteta's personalised fitness programme appears to have unlocked Saliba's full potential. The Arsenal manager implemented a bespoke training regimen that focused on preventive measures and recovery optimization.
The statistics speak volumes about Saliba's importance to Arsenal's title-chasing side. With the French international in the lineup, the Gunners maintained the Premier League's best defensive record, conceding just 29 goals throughout the season.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
Saliba joins an elite group of Arsenal legends who have completed full Premier League campaigns, placing him alongside iconic figures like Frank McLintock and Lee Dixon. This achievement becomes even more significant considering his previous injury struggles.
As Arsenal prepare for another title challenge next season, Saliba's durability provides a solid foundation for their ambitions. His partnership with Gabriel Magalhães has developed into one of the most formidable defensive pairings in European football.
The French defender's commitment to maintaining his physical peak continues through the summer, with Saliba emphasizing: "I will keep going like this until the end of my career because when you are on the pitch, you are happy."
