Arsenal defender William Saliba claims he could have made it as a pro playing as a striker

Arsenal defender William Saliba reckons he still would have made it as a professional footballer if he played up front.

Saliba has been a revelation for Mikel Arteta this season, playing a major part in the Gunners' phenomenal rise to the summit of the Premier League table, some eight points clear of title rivals Manchester City.

The 22-year-old made his debut in August 2022 during a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace, and has not looked back since.

He has formed a formidable partnership alongside Gabriel Magalhaes in the heart of defence, and established himself as one of the most accomplished centre-backs in Europe.

The France international isn't shy of a goal either, finding the net three times in all competitions this term.

And it could well have been more had he not switched positions as a teenager.

Saliba: "I was very good"

In a recent interview with Stadium Astro, Saliba revealed he used to play as a striker when he was young, and reckons he could have made it to professional level, but not at Arsenal.

"I started to be a defender when I was 14-years-old. But before, since 6-years-old I was striker or midfielder. That's why sometimes I dribble.

When asked how good he was, Saliba replied: "I promise you I was very good. But if I'm honest, if I had stayed as a striker, I would not have been at Arsenal.

"But I think I would have become a professional footballer, but I don't know where. Maybe League 2 or league 1, but not Arsenal."

Unfortunately for Arteta, Saliba limped off injured during his side's defeat to Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League, subsequently missing Arsenal's 4-1 win over Crystal Palace.

He was forced to withdraw from Didier Deschamps' France squad for the international break, whilst the defender is a doubt for the Gunners' clash against Leeds on Saturday.