Saliba wants to become an Arsenal legend after France call-up

William Saliba who was excellent these past couple of seasons, has been a key figure in

’s brilliant performances this season and fittingly he was given the nod when it came to the France World Cup squad as he was one of 9 defenders called up by Didier Deschamps.

Despite his young age, Saliba has already played for his country 7 times but this will be his first big major tournament with France and he aims to follow in the footsteps of Arsenal legends who were France legends as well.

Saliba, who learned he was about to be included in France’s squad only seconds before the Gunners’ eventual 3-1 defeat to Brighton last night, told the reporters of his desires going into the World Cup.

“

I want to be the next Frenchmen to do that, like [Robert] Pires or Vieira or Henry. I am so happy and grateful to be in this squad. I wanted to be in it, but in France we have a lot of good defenders. If I am in the squad it’s because I had a good start to the season with Arsenal.”

He also talked about how he found out the news: “

Some people told me just one hour before, but I waited for the coach [to say I was in the squad]. When he (Deschamps) spoke on the TV we were in the warm-up. So when I came back I watched it a little bit on my phone and I saw my name. I was so happy.”

The French gunner also told the reporters that the 2006

was the first World Cup he ever saw but that "It wasn’t a good memory," since France lost in the final against Italy.

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