Real Madrid Targets Arsenal's Saliba Amid International Duty
- Arsenal has won four consecutive matches and scored 14 goals since their last game against Manchester City.
- Real Madrid is pursuing William Saliba as a top transfer target and has reached out to his representatives.
- The ongoing discussions about player management and past decisions highlight the challenges faced by Arsenal's current squad.
In October 2024, many of Arsenal's key players are currently engaged in international duty, which raises concerns for manager Mikel Arteta as he prepares for a challenging series of fixtures. The team has been performing well, having secured four consecutive victories and scored 14 goals since their last match against Manchester City. Amidst this backdrop, Real Madrid has reportedly identified William Saliba as their top target for the upcoming summer transfer window, having already initiated discussions with his representatives. Saliba, a 23-year-old centre-back, has gained recognition for his impressive performances alongside Gabriel Magalhaes, making him a valuable asset for the La Liga club. Additionally, Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is recovering from an ankle injury sustained while on international duty, with his return to play still uncertain according to Norway's national team coach. Former England goalkeeper David James has criticized Arteta's decision to let Emiliano Martinez leave for Aston Villa in 2020, suggesting that Martinez would have been an ideal fit for Arsenal's current needs. This commentary highlights ongoing debates about player management and the impact of past decisions on the team's present situation.