'He does things I don't like so much' – Arsenal star William Saliba criticized by Didier Deschamps

French manager Didier Deschamps criticized Arsenal star William Saliba's playing style.

Saliba has been considered one of the Premier League's best defenders over the past two seasons after breaking into the Arsenal side.

However, his career at international level has not yet convinced some, such as the French coach Deschamps.

Despite his brilliant performances for Arsenal, Saliba has been told to calm down with Les Bleus in a scathing review.

Before France's game against Chile on Tuesday, Deschamps said: “He is having a good season, but he also does things that I don't like very much.

“For France, he has limited playing time, but when he plays, he hasn't necessarily done well. The hierarchy does not favor him at the moment, but he is here.

“(Dayot) Upamecano has had playing time and perhaps William has had less.

“With certain players, I make sure to persevere, because it can be confidence or small blocks that can change. Some don't have any worries, others need play time.

“William has had less playing time, which doesn't allow him to be very calm.”

Saliba was named PFA Premier League Team of the Year last season and his late-season injury derailed Arsenal's title bid.

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This season, he has made 28 Premier League appearances and has forged an excellent partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes at the back of Arteta's team.

However, the 23-year-old is yet to make a big impression at international level, with Upamecano, Jules Kounde, Benjamin Pavard and Ibrahima Konate ahead of him.

Since making his debut for France in March 2022, Saliba has made just six starts in 12 internationals, last playing in a 2-2 draw against Greece in November 2023.

It was at that moment that Deschamps attacked the former Saint-Etienne star, criticizing his situation at Arsenal, where he alleged that there is a lack of competition for positions.

Deschamps said in November: “At international level, he has not always been in the best condition in games where I have rotated a lot.

“He is not in the same psychological situation with his club, where he is not wondering if he will play at the weekend.

“When he has playing time with us, he tells himself that he needs to play well because there are others behind him.

“He is not in a psychological situation equal to that of his club. He has everything he needs to take the next step.”