Arsenal star tipped to be a ‘big surprise’ at the World Cup

Former Arsenal and Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre is expecting big things from William Saliba.

Arsenal defender William Saliba may become a ‘big surprise’ for France in the upcoming 2022 World Cup, according to Mikael Silvestre.

The 21-year-old has won a spot in France’s World Cup squad following his breakthrough performances at Arsenal this season. To date, he has won seven senior caps with Les Bleus. More will probably follow in Qatar, especially as Paris Saint-Germain defender Presnel Kimpembe is out injured.

“I think he’s got a real chance to start with [Raphaël] Varane,” former Arsenal defender Silvestre told Betting Expert.

“That would be the continuity to his season. I think he could be a big surprise and continue at the level he’s been showing in the Premier League.”

Saliba returned to Arsenal in the summer following loan spells at Saint-Etienne, Nice, and Marseille in France. He has made 17 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals and supplying one assist.

As for France, the Didier Deschamps’ side will begin their World Cup title defense next Tuesday against Australia in Group D.