Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta respond as Arsenal announcement made - 'that speaks volumes'

Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta have had their say on William Saliba's new contract at Arsenal.

The defender has signed a new five-year deal at the Emirates Stadium to extend his stay at the club until the summer of 2030. In a bold move by new sporting director Berta, who joined the club this summer, Arsenal's French centre-back has pledged his loyalty to Arteta's team despite rumoured interest from La Liga giants Real Madrid.

The 24-year-old's current contract was due to run out in the summer of 2027, with Los Blancos reportedly keeping tabs on the situation. However, the player has thrown his full support behind the Arsenal project, believing it to be the best platform for him to clinch silverware.

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It marks another significant contract renewal overseen by Berta since his arrival at the club, following fresh deals for Gabriel Magalhaes, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly earlier this summer. And now both Arteta and Berta have had their say on Saliba's new deal.

"William is loved by all the players and staff, and that speaks volumes about his character, commitment and attitude every day," Arteta said. "Since joining us, William has grown so much, embraced responsibility, and has created a strong connection with our supporters and everyone at the club.

"We know there is still so much to come from him and will continue to work together to keep improving with the clear ambition of winning major trophies."

Meanwhile, Berta said: “We’re so happy that William has committed his future to us to be part of what we’re building here.

"In the last three seasons, William has become an incredible defender whose composure, intelligence and physical presence make him one of the best in the world. He will continue his development with Arsenal to reach new heights.

"His consistency, maturity, and ability to influence matches will continue to be a big asset for us and we’re looking forward to many more great performances from him at the heart of our defence.”

Saliba himself has explained why he has decided to sign a new deal with the Gunners. “I feel proud of myself because I first signed in 2019, and now in 2025, I'm still here to extend my contract," he said. "I'm so happy.

“I feel at home. We have a good team, we have a good squad, we have good staff. The coach is perfect for me, so it's the best place to be.

“I enjoy every day when I have the chance to wear this shirt. I try to give everything, and now I’ll give even more to this club and to the fans.”