Harry Redknapp compares William Saliba to Rio Ferdinand after Arsenal’s win over Man City

Arsenal secured a 1-0 win over Manchester City at the Emirates last Sunday, with William Saliba and Declan Rice receiving praise for their performances. Harry Redknapp has now compared Saliba to a young Rio Ferdinand, praising the Arsenal star for his performance against City.

Saliba Man-Marks Haaland

Centre-back Saliba was Redknapp’s first pick, telling Premier League Odds: ‘I thought Saliba was different class against City. He man marked [Erling] Haaland for a lot of the game and honestly, the Norwegian barely had a kick. He’s got a bit of everything in his game, he’s what I would call a “Rolls-Royce” of a defender. He actually reminds me a bit of Rio when I had him at West Ham, just a class act.’

Redknapp handed Ferdinand his debut in 1997, with the defender going onto become one of Manchester United and England’s best ever centre-backs.

Rice Leads Arsenal in Midfield

Redknapp’s second pick was the club record-signing and defensive midfielder: ‘Declan Rice was signed to be the difference in the big games and boy did the lad play well. He led the team in midfield, it’s like he’s been in that side for years. He’s such a dominating presence in there, so quick, so strong. There’s a long, long way to go this season but with Declan in this form, Arsenal look like they have enough to go one better than last year.’

Arsenal Aim to Go Top of the Table

Arteta’s team will aim to go top of the table when the season resumes, but they’ll face another tricky fixture in the form of a trip to London rivals Chelsea on 21st October.

Conclusion

Saliba and Rice have been key for Arsenal this season, and with their performances against Manchester City, they have shown that they are capable of helping the Gunners win silverware. Redknapp has compared Saliba to a young Rio Ferdinand, and if he can reach those heights, then Arsenal could be in for a successful season.