William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, two centre-backs for Arsenal, have been praised by Rio Ferdinand as the best defensive pair in Europe.

Under Mikel Arteta, both players have become impossible to drop, and they are a big reason why the Gunners have been challenging for the Premier League title lately.

Indeed, Ferdinand, a six-time Premier League winner with Manchester United, has spoken eloquently about the pair and how well they work together.

Before Arsenal’s first Champions League game against Atalanta, he was asked again if they were one of the best teams in Europe.

When asked if they were the best pair on TNT Sports, Ferdinand said, “Yes.” I believe they are. They’ve shown that over the last few seasons. 

“This back four is the best in the Premier League,” he said.The roots of Mikel Arteta’s team are looked at more closely by @rioferdy5 and Martin Keown. “They’re determined,” they say. They’re tough. There are different ways for them to do it. You have a great mix. Saliba is a little calmer and wants to cover and sweep a bit more. 

Gabriel is in charge; he’s more like Martin Keown. He plays in an offensive way. They work really well together. 

“But I want to make it clear that it’s not just those two.” Ben White needs to come in and make it a three. Also, David Raya is really coming into his own as a custodian.

He also said, “I think this is the best back four or back five in the Premier League.” This season, we’ll see how they do in this event, which is different. 

“But there is a strong core of bodies there that can really compete.” 

They want every player who plays against them to think, “This is going to be a tough one today.” That’s Mikel Arteta you want.

In April, Ferdinand said that Gabriel and Saliba’s relationship was a big reason why his team was going for the trophy. Arteta agreed with Ferdinand.

Arteta said, “You can see a balance, and they work well together.”

“They’re so glad to play together.” It just goes. They have done a great job.