Arsenal defender William Saliba has expressed confidence that the team can pursue an unprecedented quadruple this season. Currently, Arsenal leads both the Premier League and the Champions League, and recently advanced to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup after a tense penalty shootout victory against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.
Manager Mikel Arteta is under pressure to secure silverware, having won only the FA Cup in 2020 during his six years at the helm. Saliba, when asked about the possibility of winning multiple trophies this season, emphasized the team’s potential, stating, “Yes, of course, because we know that in every competition we play, we know we can win it.”
The defender highlighted Arsenal’s near misses in previous seasons, noting, “We have been close in the Premier League in the past three seasons, and last season we were in the semi-finals of the Champions League and the Carabao Cup.” With a strong belief in their capabilities, he acknowledged the importance of translating that potential into tangible success.
As Arsenal prepares for a semi-final clash against Chelsea in January, Saliba stressed the need for focus and determination. “We have to do the job in January against Chelsea. It will be a big game, a big derby, so we have to keep going,” he remarked. The team’s ambition is clear: “At the end of your career, we count our trophies, and the Carabao Cup is one of them.”
Currently, Arsenal is positioned to challenge for the league title, having finished as runners-up in the past three seasons. They could find themselves just one point behind Manchester City when they host Brighton at the Emirates Stadium on December 30, 2023, provided City emerges victorious against Nottingham Forest earlier that day.
Looking ahead, Arsenal’s schedule becomes increasingly demanding with two fixtures remaining in December against Brighton and Aston Villa, who are closely trailing in the league standings. January will see the team engaged in nine matches, a testament to their successful campaign thus far.
Saliba reflected on the team’s current morale, stating, “The mood is good, but we know that we are still in December and things can happen quickly in football.” He underscored the importance of maintaining focus and self-belief, emphasizing that success is ultimately measured by the trophies they win. “What matters is at the end when we are holding the trophies and not before.”
In closing, Saliba expressed optimism about the return of injured players in January, which could bolster Arsenal’s quest for glory across multiple fronts. The young defender’s confidence is a reflection of the team’s ambition as they aim to make history this season.
