William Saliba makes Premier League history for Arsenal after hard-fought 2-1 win against Everton
Arsenal defender William Saliba became the first outfield player in the club's Premier League history to play every minute of a season after featuring against Everton. The Gunners secured a narrow 2-1 win over Everton to ensure that they finished the season with three points despite failing to win the title.
The 2023-24 season has been a historic one of sorts for Arsenal even as they ended up in second place behind Manchester City. The Gunners won 29 games, the most in the history of the club, scoring 91 goals and conceding only 29 times. Manager Mikel Arteta also got one over his former employers for the first time, taking four points off them.
After establishing himself at the Emirates last season, William Saliba proved this season that his performance last season was not a fluke. The Frenchman made history as he played every minute of the Gunners' league campaign, underlining his importance and quality.
The 23-year-old missed last season's run-in through injury but avoided any fitness-related issues in this campaign. The center-back formed the league's best defensive partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes, together conceding just 29 goals. Behind them, goalkeeper David Raya also won the Golden Glove for keeping 16 clean sheets.
Club legend Lee Dixon featured in every minute, like Saliba, in the 1989-90 season, but this was before the Premier League era. Saliba scored two goals and provided an assist in his time on the pitch, contributing at both ends for his side as he set a record for an Arsenal outfielder.
Saliba has been selected to represent France at the Euros this summer, and his form may earn him a place in his country's starting XI in Germany.
Arsenal stalwart picks up injury in Everton clash
Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes saw his season end on a sour note after picking up an injury in the final game against Everton. The Brazil international, who has been selected for his country's Copa America squad, left the stadium in a cast after the game.
Gabriel tangled with Everton man Abdoulaye Doucoure before ending up on the deck, and he was substituted shortly after with an injury. The former Lille man was replaced by Oleksandr Zinchenko after he couldn't continue, as he looked to have dislocated his shoulder.
With Bukayo Saka having picked up an issue in training, the injury to Gabriel will be a cause of worry to not just Mikel Arteta, but their countries. With the Copa America set to commence in less than a month, Brazil will be sweating on the fitness of the center-back.