Kylian Mbappe Reveals the One Arsenal Defender He Prefers to Avoid in Champions League Showdown
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) superstar Kylian Mbappe has acknowledged that while he doesn’t fear any defender, there’s one Arsenal player he has always preferred to avoid on the pitch. With PSG set to take on the Gunners in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, the French forward now has no choice but to face this formidable defensive force.
“It’s not that I’m afraid of him, but going up against such an aggressive and relentless defender is something I’ve tried to steer clear of in my career. Now, we’re set to face off in the Champions League quarter-finals,” Mbappe said in a recent interview.
Though he didn’t explicitly mention a name, reports suggest he was referring to Arsenal’s defensive stalwart, William Saliba.
Saliba has been a rock at the back for Mikel Arteta’s side, with his combination of strength, speed, and composure making him one of Europe’s toughest defenders. His ability to read the game, anticipate attacks, and match the world’s best forwards stride-for-stride makes him a nightmare matchup—even for elite attackers like Mbappe.
Interestingly, Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior has also reportedly expressed similar concerns about facing Saliba. The Brazilian winger, renowned for his blistering pace and dribbling skills, has struggled against top-class defenders, and Saliba’s presence further reinforces Arsenal’s defensive solidity.
Arsenal’s resurgence under Arteta has been built on a strong defensive foundation, with Saliba forming a formidable partnership alongside Gabriel Magalhães.
As the Champions League quarter-final looms, all eyes will be on the high-stakes duel between Mbappe and Saliba—a battle that could play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of the tie.
Will Saliba manage to contain one of the most lethal forwards in the world, or will Mbappe find a way to break through Arsenal’s backline? Football fans everywhere are eagerly awaiting the showdown.