Arsenal’s William Saliba: “Drogba is a legend, but Eto’o is the greatest African player”

Arsenal and France defender William Saliba, who has Cameroonian roots, has named Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o as his greatest African player of all time.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Saliba revealed his childhood inspirations and admiration for the four-time African Player of the Year:
“Who was my football idol? Messi and Eto’o. When you are a child, you don’t watch centre-backs, only strikers and wingers. Samuel Eto’o is not appreciated enough; for me, he is the greatest African player in history. Drogba is a legend, but for me, Eto’o is better.”

Saliba also highlighted the toughest striker he has faced in his career:
“The strongest striker I have ever faced? Mbappé, because he can do everything.”

When asked to choose between Paolo Maldini and Sergio Ramos, the Frenchman revealed:
“Maldini or Ramos? To be fair, I didn’t watch Maldini, but I think Ramos is maybe not appreciated enough in England. He is a leader who won many trophies, especially the Champions League, and he also won the World Cup and the Euros. For me, he is the right one.”

This season, Saliba has already made five appearances for Arsenal, registering an assist in the League Cup victory over Port Vale. The 24-year-old defender, who is under contract at the Emirates until the summer of 2027, has so far played 139 matches for the Gunners, scoring 7 goals and providing 3 assists.

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