Transfer: ‘You won’t return to Arteta’s starting lineup again’ – John Terry tells Saliba

Chelsea legend, John Terry, has said that William Saliba may not return to the Gunners’ starting lineup as he has already been replaced.

The former central defender believes that Ezri Konsa has taken Saliba’s spot following his transfer from Aston Villa.

During an appearance on the FC Bullard TikTok channel, Terry lauded Konsa, describing him as a major acquisition for the Gunners who will partner with Gabriel at the heart of Arsenal’s defence.

He reminisced about their time together at Aston Villa, noting that the 28-year-old is both quick and aggressive on the field.

He stated:

“I would choose Ezri Konsa for Arsenal. That’s a tremendous signing. I believe that even when William Saliba returns to fitness, he won’t regain his place in the Arsenal team; Ezri Konsa is simply that talented.

“I worked with him at Aston Villa, and he’s incredibly aggressive while also being comfortable playing on the halfway line because if the ball goes behind, he has the pace to recover. He’s an exceptionally good player.”
Arsenal invested £51 million in Ezri Konsa this summer, with Aston Villa set to receive an additional £4 million in performance-related add-ons.