Arsenal defender William Saliba has opened up on the disappointment of missing the Coupe de France final with loan club Saint-Etienne.
The defender has spent the season on a temporary deal with his former club, after signing for Arsenal last summer.
However, the extension of the season due to the coronavirus pandemic means that talks had to take place between the Gunners and St Etienne over the 19-year-old playing one final game for the French club before returning to the Emirates Stadium.
But, after much toing and froing and agreement could not be met, meaning that the teenager will be unable to play in tonight’s (Friday) final.
Ahead of the game, Saliba has given his thoughts on being ineligible for the game.
“Of course I hope to play other finals, but you are never sure of anything,” he told L’Equipe (via GFFN ).
“On top of that, it would have been my last match with the club that formed me. I hoped, hoped. Truly. Even when it became impossible. The two clubs did everything for me to play. But they did not reach an agreement. I was very disappointed.”
“As I am not able to play, I want to at least feel this final as much as possible, by supporting my team in the stadium. In front of the TV, it would not be the same. It was important for me to be there, hoping to see Les Verts win. It will also allow me to say goodbye to my teammates properly. Because I left like I was a robber.”
The defender will be part of Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad next season after returning to the Emirates Stadium and the centre-back has said it was an easy decision for him to join Arsenal.
“I fell for Arsenal from the start,” he said.
“ A number of French players have been there. Arsenal has not been at the top of its game for the last three, four years. But, like St Étienne, its badge, its history and its fans made me want it.
“I have a crush on Arsenal. What it gives off speaks to me. I had no hesitation. I am discovering another world.”
Injuries have disrupted Saliba’s season at St Etienne, but the defender still managed to impress in his 12 Ligue 1 appearances for the club.
