Arsenal fans hail Saliba as a future captain after St Etienne celebrations

William Saliba may not be in the Arsenal squad yet, but he’s a player that is already catching the attention of plenty of supporters.

The 18-year-old defender dominated the headlines this weekend after leading St Etienne’s post-match celebrations as they beat Lyon in their local derby.

After a 1-0 win, Claude Puel’s side enjoyed their moment after the full-time whistle and these Arsenal fans like what they see from Saliba.

Twitter: 18-year-old defender William Saliba led the post-match celebrations after St Étienne achieved their 1st derby win o… https://t.co/3XqXRS6Nnk (@GFFN)

Twitter: @GFFN @Ligue1Conforama He’s just getting ready for @SpursOfficial next season. (@davecruickshan3)

Twitter: @GFFN @Ligue1Conforama Getting leaders back there now with Tierney, Saliba, Luiz, Bellerin and to some extent Holding too. Bodes well. (@SwedishKT3)

Twitter: @GFFN @IAmNoOne99 @Ligue1Conforama Our boy!! (@TILIKI_OS)

Twitter: @GFFN @Ligue1Conforama Going to be some fight for that megaphone when we win the title at the Emirates next season @kierantierney1 ? (@Gazmck17)

Twitter: @CannonInsider @SemperFiArsenal Our future captain (@GunnerTP14)

Read Arsenal verdict

Not only is it great to see such a connection between the fans and the players, but also the maturity of someone so young who is emerging as a real leader in the St Etienne squad.

There won’t be many 18-year-old defenders playing in derby games of that magnitude and standing up as a leader.

As one fan mentioned, this bodes well for Arsenal as they continue to add leaders to their squad. The Gunners could really be looking at a future club captain in Saliba.