Why Did Arsenal Legend Thierry Henry Brutally Criticize Gunners Star Saliba?

Thierry Henry
Thierry Henry

Gunners legend, Thierry Henry has slammed Arsenal defender William Saliba for his costly error against RC Lens in the Champions League this week.

Saliba, who signed from Saint-Etienne for £27 million in 2019, has been imperious since breaking into Mikel Arteta’s side. However, the French international would end up costing the north London club the game after an error in the 69th minute.

What Happened During The RC Lens vs. Arsenal Game?

Despite ChatGPT predicting a stalemate between the two sides, RC Lens came into this tie as heavy underdogs,  and within 14 minutes were 1-0 down as a result of Gabriel Jesus’ clinical finish.

However, despite Arsenal going close through Kai Havertz, the French side rallied and were back on level terms in the 25th minute through Adrien Thomasson after David Raya sloppily conceded possession.

With the scores, somehow, still level at 1-1 after a catalogue of missed chances, Lens broke down Arsenal’s left-hand side and crossed the ball into the box. Saliba lost his man, reported Arsenal transfer target Elye Wahi, and the French striker finished with aplomb.

The mistake would prove costly for the Frenchman and his team as the Gunners would go on to lose the game 2-1.

What did Henry say about Saliba’s error?

Speaking on CBS Sports following the game, Henry said: “But can we talk about Saliba? The space never scores a goal.

“Can you have a look at where your striker is? If you go back to the last angle, he never looks at where the number nine is. Only the nine can score there. Or the winger can come inside.

“Saliba never looks to see what Wahi does. Never looks! I have never seen the space scoring a goal.”

Arsenal, whose Champions League odds have taken a blow following this defeat, now sit second  on three points in Group B and face a stern test in their next Champions League fixture away to last year’s Europa League winners, Sevilla.


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