William Saliba partnerships have become a defining feature of Arsenal’s defensive dominance under Mikel Arteta. Since arriving in the Premier League, the French centre-back has shown rare composure, anticipation, and tactical awareness — traits that make him a perfect partner for a variety of defenders.
In this feature, we explore the Top 5 Best William Saliba Partnerships, revealing how his chemistry with key teammates like Gabriel Magalhães and Ben White has built one of the most balanced backlines in European football.
William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães
When it comes to William Saliba partnerships, none shines brighter than his alliance with Gabriel Magalhães. Their bond anchors Arsenal’s defense with power, precision, and balance. Gabriel’s aggression and aerial dominance complement Saliba’s calm ball progression and positional intelligence.
Together, they embody the perfect modern defensive duo — able to play a high line, dominate physically, and recover quickly in transitions. Their Saliba-Gabriel partnership not only minimizes errors but also sets the foundation for Arsenal’s buildup play.
This mutual understanding has been crucial in key Premier League and Champions League performances, making them arguably the most reliable William Saliba partnership to date.
William Saliba and Ben White
The Saliba and Ben White partnership highlights the elegance of tactical balance and modern flexibility. Saliba brings defensive assurance and recovery pace, while White offers composure, passing range, and versatility.
What elevates this William Saliba partnership is the fluid transition from defense to attack — a hallmark of Arteta’s system.
White’s positioning allows Saliba to focus on intercepting through balls and dominating one-on-one duels, while Saliba’s presence gives White freedom to drift into midfield and assist in buildup. Their synergy epitomizes Arsenal’s transformation into a possession-based, tactically adaptive team.
William Saliba and Rob Holding
While not a regular Premier League pairing, the Saliba and Rob Holding partnership has been invaluable in domestic cup competitions. Holding’s aerial strength and defensive leadership blend seamlessly with Saliba’s composure and anticipation under pressure.
In knockout fixtures, where one mistake can decide the game, their understanding ensures stability. Saliba often steps up to intercept or initiate quick counters, while Holding commands the box during set pieces.
This disciplined William Saliba partnership showcases depth and reliability — two traits essential for Arsenal’s long-term ambitions.
William Saliba and Takehiro Tomiyasu
The William Saliba and Tomiyasu partnership is built on adaptability and speed. Facing opponents who rely on pace down the wings, Tomiyasu’s quick recovery and disciplined positioning give Saliba the confidence to step up and read central threats early.
Their coordination keeps Arsenal’s defensive line compact, especially when dealing with counter-attacks or overlapping wingers.
This Saliba partnership demonstrates the kind of positional data and defensive metrics frequently featured within Stats & Performance.
William Saliba and Pablo Mari
Though brief, the Saliba and Pablo Mari partnership displayed positional discipline and calm under pressure. Mari’s left-footed balance complemented Saliba’s right-sided strength, enabling smooth ball distribution and efficient control of space.
Their teamwork prevented gaps from appearing in Arsenal’s defensive shape, particularly when protecting narrow leads. This William Saliba partnership emphasized trust, communication, and composure — qualities vital to any elite defensive setup.
Each William Saliba partnership offers a different tactical flavor — from Gabriel’s brute strength to Ben White’s intelligence, Holding’s resilience, Tomiyasu’s adaptability, and Mari’s calm assurance.
Together, they underline why Saliba is not just Arsenal’s defensive anchor but also a connector — a player who elevates those around him.
As Arsenal continues to chase silverware, these Saliba partnerships represent more than defensive pairings; they are the backbone of a team built on trust, communication, and world-class defensive chemistry.