William Saliba recalls Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta told him he was ‘too soft’ in training
### William Saliba Reveals How Mikel Arteta Helped Toughen Him Up at Arsenal
Arsenal defender William Saliba has opened up about his journey to becoming a key player under manager Mikel Arteta. Reflecting on his early days at the club, Saliba shared how Arteta’s demanding training sessions played a crucial role in his development, transforming him from a ‘soft’ player into a formidable presence on the pitch.
#### A Challenging Start at Arsenal
William Saliba’s path to Arsenal’s first team wasn’t straightforward. After joining from French side St-Etienne in a £27 million deal five years ago, the young center-back struggled to secure a spot in the starting lineup. He spent two full seasons back on loan in France, gaining valuable experience but still needing to prove himself to Arteta.
#### Arteta’s Tough Love
Saliba recalled how Arteta’s initial assessment of him was blunt and to the point. “He thought I was a little soft in training,” Saliba admitted in an interview with L’Equipe. This criticism became a turning point for the 23-year-old defender. Arteta pushed him to adopt a tougher attitude, emphasizing the need for aggression and resilience. “He asked me to be meaner. In fact, he wants the players to be scared when he sees me,” Saliba explained.
#### Earning a Place in the Team
Arteta’s rigorous training regimen and high standards began to pay off. Saliba’s dedication and improvement earned him a place in the Arsenal squad. His performances have since been integral to the team’s success, helping Arsenal compete fiercely with Manchester City in recent Premier League seasons. Saliba’s evolution under Arteta’s guidance has also put him in a strong position to play a crucial role for France in the upcoming European Championship.
#### Praise for Arteta’s Coaching
Saliba didn’t hold back in praising Arteta’s influence on his career. “He taught me to have a good attitude,” Saliba said, acknowledging the importance of his manager’s mentorship. “He took me to another level. He is one of the best coaches in the world. He looks at all the details and hates defeat.”
Arteta’s meticulous approach to training and match preparation has been a key factor in Arsenal’s recent resurgence. Saliba highlighted how each match is approached differently, showcasing Arteta’s strategic depth and adaptability.
#### A Promising Future
William Saliba’s story is a testament to the impact a dedicated and demanding coach can have on a player’s career. Through Arteta’s tough love and strategic guidance, Saliba has developed into a robust and reliable defender, ready to take on the challenges of both the Premier League and international competitions. As Arsenal continues to build on their recent successes, Saliba’s growth and Arteta’s coaching will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in the club’s future achievements.
