Kylian Mbappe makes William Saliba prediction after 'important' Arsenal claim

Kylian Mbappe believes William Saliba is "among the best centre-backs in the Premier League" after the defender enjoyed an outstanding season with Arsenal.

Saliba started all 38 games as the Gunners were narrowly beaten to the Premier League title by Manchester City, who recorded their sixth title success in seven seasons. However, it was Arsenal who conceded the fewest goals in the Premier League (29).

But on the international stage, Saliba is reportedly facing an uphill battle to dislodge either Ibrahima Konate or Dayot Upamecano at the heart of France's defence for this summer's Euro 2024 campaign.

However, Mbappe insists Saliba has all of the qualities to be a starter for the two-time World champions.

“This season, he has become a very important player for Arsenal and is among the best centre-backs in the Premier League. He is starting to get minutes with us," Mbappe told Ouest-France. "It’s now up to him to find his place. For me, he has all the qualities to, in time, be a starter with Les Bleus."

READ MORE: Stan Kroenke can help Edu complete two-year Arsenal scouting mission by approving £59m transfer

READ MORE: Edu can hand Mikel Arteta his dream Arsenal attack with £42m La Liga transfer

On the topic of Saliba, Mbappe revealed that they both attended the same primary school in Bondy: "I look at his journey with the pride of an older brother. There is no taboo between us and we tease each other, he added. "For example, I often tell him that he wants to be the star of Bondy, but that it will never happen!”