“I’ve Faced Van Dijk and Walker, But No One Like Him” – Vinícius Jr. Lauds Arsenal Defender Who Dominated at the Bernabéu
Vinícius Jr. is no stranger to elite defenders, having squared off with names like Virgil van Dijk and Kyle Walker. But following a dramatic Champions League clash at the Santiago Bernabéu, the Brazilian winger singled out one Arsenal star who left a lasting impression — and surprisingly, it wasn’t Jurrien Timber.
Instead, it was William Saliba who earned Vinícius’ glowing praise.
“I’ve gone up against some of the best — Van Dijk, Walker… they’re top-class. But honestly, I’ve never come across a defender as complete as him. He’s dangerous on both ends of the pitch and so composed on the ball — totally different from anyone I’ve faced.”
The 23-year-old Frenchman was a rock at the back for Arsenal, expertly shutting down Vinícius’ trademark runs, stepping up into midfield when needed, and exuding an incredible level of poise under pressure.
“He’s calm like no one else,” Vinícius continued. “He doesn’t rush in. He waits, reads you, and reacts — you feel helpless.”
Throughout the match, Real Madrid tried everything to break down Arsenal’s defense, targeting Saliba’s side, but the center-back remained unshaken. From last-minute tackles to elegant turns under pressure and starting counterattacks with confidence, Saliba played like a seasoned world-class defender.
One unforgettable moment came when Saliba shrugged off Vinícius, spun away with the ball, and launched a counterattack — leaving fans at the Bernabéu in awe.
“WHAT A PLAYER HE IS,” a stunned Madrid supporter wrote on X. “Saliba just gave Vini Jr. the toughest game he’s had in Europe.”
With that performance, William Saliba didn’t just cement his place in Arsenal’s defense — he announced himself as one of the best in the world.
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