With Arsenal’s victory over Nottingham Forest, William Saliba was happy to make a successful comeback to Premier League play.
Due to a back injury, the France defender missed the final few weeks of the previous campaign. As a result, Arsenal dropped from first place to finish fifth, five points behind winners Manchester City.
FEATURED VIDEO
Before getting hurt, the Gunners were comfortable atop the table, and Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes had developed a strong defensive combination.
After Eddie Nketiah’s deflected shot had tied the score, Saliba rejoined the squad for the 2-1 victory over Forest and assisted Bukayo Saka’s spectacular goal.
Regarding his comeback to competition, he exclaimed, “I’m really, really delighted.”
“I’m not 100% right now, but I’d give anything to get back because it’s been so long. I was injured and was unable to play, but I’m delighted to be on the team now. My recovery and return to my best were aided by the team and staff.
“Playing at home is better (always). You experience neither pressure nor pain, which is good.
I’m not 100 per cent at the moment, but I give everything to come back, because it’s been a long time
Prior to substitute Taiwo Awoniyi’s goal with eight minutes left, Arsenal had appeared to be in complete control of the opposition. This gave the visitors hope of salvaging an unexpected draw.
In the end, the hosts managed to hold on, and Saliba was happy to open the campaign on a winning note.
It was excellent to begin the campaign with a victory, he continued.
“Winning the opening game in a league is never simple, but we played well today. Sadly, we gave up a goal in the final ten minutes, but it’s okay, we learned from it, and we’ll get better for the next game.
After giving debuts to Ola Aina, Anthony Elanga, and Matt Turner, Forest is looking to expand their roster before the transfer deadline. The latter was excited to debut against Arsenal after leaving them for the City Ground earlier in the previous week.
“Prem debut and debut. Yesterday, a dream was at last realized,” he wrote on Instagram.
“We appreciate the Forest supporters who traveled! We’ll see you on Friday at the City Ground.
It was definitely a great day for me and my family, so I just wanted to express my gratitude for the kind welcome back to the Emirates.
