Joe Hart spots Saliba’s important role in Arsenal’s winning goal
William Saliba played a decisive role in Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Newcastle United, coming off the bench at halftime to strengthen the side both defensively and in attack. Cristhian Mosquera had been in fine form in recent weeks and was given the opportunity to start the match. However, the first half proved difficult for him, […] The post Joe Hart spots Saliba’s important role in Arsenal’s winning goal appeared first on Just Arsenal News.
RR aka Rishi-Raj
William Saliba played a decisive role in Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Newcastle United, coming off the bench at halftime to strengthen the side both defensively and in attack.
Cristhian Mosquera had been in fine form in recent weeks and was given the opportunity to start the match. However, the first half proved difficult for him, and Arsenal turned to Saliba after the interval. The introduction of the French defender provided greater stability at the back and ensured Newcastle found it much harder to create meaningful opportunities during the second period.
Saliba’s unseen influence
While his defensive presence was immediately felt, Saliba also had a subtle but crucial impact on Arsenal’s late winner, which was headed in by Gabriel. Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart drew attention to the defender’s role when analysing the goal. Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day 2, he explained: “Do not underestimate William Saliba. Nick Pope is a top dominant keeper, but just as the ball comes in, Saliba comes round on the blindside (and stands in front of him). Six foot four, close to 100kg. Saliba goes, Get past me if you can. Pope is dying to be a good teammate, but he’s been blindsided, the strength isn’t there, and he’s stuck in no man’s land.”
Hart’s analysis highlighted how Saliba’s positioning and physical presence disrupted Pope, preventing the Newcastle goalkeeper from dealing with the delivery that led to the decisive goal. Though not credited with an assist, Saliba’s involvement was key in creating the conditions for Gabriel’s header.
Strength in partnership
Beyond his influence on the winning goal, Saliba reaffirmed his importance to Arsenal’s defensive unit. His partnership with Gabriel is widely regarded as one of the strongest in world football, combining physical dominance with composure on the ball. The duo’s understanding of each other’s movements and responsibilities was again on display, shutting down Newcastle’s attempts to equalise late in the match.
Arsenal will be eager to keep Saliba fit as the season progresses. His absence has been felt in the past, and his return to action serves as a reminder of the value he brings. Not only does he provide security at the back, but his presence also adds authority in crucial moments, as demonstrated in this fixture.
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The post Joe Hart spots Saliba’s important role in Arsenal’s winning goal appeared first on Just Arsenal News.
