Rio Ferdinand tips William Saliba to become the best centre-back in the world | OneFootball

Arsenal beat Manchester United 2-0 last night and speaking after the game on Rio Ferdinand Presents, Rio Ferdinand predicted that William Saliba is on track to become the best centre-back in the world.

“I think [Saliba] 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 I see, the person who I think will rival him and it will be close is Leny Yoro.”

Saliba has enjoyed a fine season, followed up with another clean sheet last night to go along with a goal. He has been one of the best defenders on the planet for a couple of years now and Ferdinand believes he is ready to make the next step.

Saliba has started 13 of Arsenal’s 14 league games this season and been a vital part of a defence that is averaging only one goal conceded per game.

The Frenchman has perhaps seen less praise than in previous campaigns, due to the goalscoring prowess of his partner Gabriel Magalhães. But yesterday he was front and centre and completely dominant in a comfortable win for the Gunners.

Ferdinand also said: “Saliba, he looks imposing. Rasmus Hojlund is probably still trying to fight his way out of his pocket now. It was like a man against a boy. I want to see Rasmus Hojlund improve in those situations, in those one vs ones.”

Ferdinand mentioned Leny Yoro as another defender who could become one of the best on the planet, and at just 19-years-old, that is a very brave statement.

Yoro has been injured ever since he joined United and yesterday was his first game this season. He’ll be hoping to stay fit and work his way into Ruben Amorim’s plans.