Ahead of Arsenal’s highly anticipated FA Cup match against Manchester United, William Saliba, the team’s defensive star, has made a surprising admission. The French centre-back, known for his strength and calm under pressure, revealed there’s only one United player he truly fears facing — and his statement has sent shockwaves through the football world.
In an exclusive interview, Saliba shared, “Playing against him is always tough… He’s unpredictable and constantly shows you something new. You think you’ve figured him out, but then he does something unexpected. That’s what makes him so dangerous.”
Though Saliba didn’t initially name the player, sources confirmed he was referring to Manchester United’s in-form forward, Marcus Rashford.
Rashford’s Impressive Form
It’s no surprise that Rashford is striking fear into defenders. The English forward has been in scintillating form this season, using his speed, skill, and sharp finishing to dismantle defenses. With 15 goals and 8 assists across all competitions, Rashford has re-established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous attackers under manager Ruben Amorim.
Saliba, who regularly faces some of the world’s top forwards, acknowledged that Rashford’s combination of pace and intelligence makes him a particularly tough opponent. “He’s not just fast; he’s smart. He knows where to be and how to exploit your weaknesses. That’s what sets him apart,” Saliba said.
Arsenal’s Defensive Concerns
Arsenal heads into the FA Cup tie with some defensive concerns. While Saliba has been a key figure at the back, his recognition of Rashford’s threat could provide a psychological edge for United. With Arsenal already dealing with injuries in defense, Rashford’s form adds an extra layer of pressure as they prepare for the clash.
United’s FA Cup Ambitions
For Manchester United, Saliba’s comments only fuel the growing optimism surrounding their season under Ruben Amorim. Rashford’s performances have been a driving force behind United’s strong run, and his ability to perform in high-stakes matches will be key as they aim to eliminate Arsenal from the FA Cup.
Fan Reactions
Fans from both sides have flooded social media to react to Saliba’s revelation. United supporters are celebrating Rashford as their key player, while Arsenal fans are questioning whether Saliba’s comments have given United a psychological boost.
With the stage set for a thrilling encounter at Old Trafford, all eyes will be on whether Rashford can live up to Saliba’s fears or if the Arsenal defender can keep the forward at bay. One thing is for certain: this FA Cup clash promises to be an unforgettable showdown.
