I have played against Top defenders like Van Dijk and Even Walker before but to be honest I have never faced such a dangerously offensively and defensively defender like Him before, He’s more composed with the ball unlike the others that I have met”, Vinicious jnr praising ONE Arsenal defender who stole the show at Bernabeu last night – Not Jurrien Timber WHAT A PLAYER HE IS
Sure, here’s a word-for-word paraphrase of the passage, with all the quoted parts left exactly as they are:
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When Vinícius Jr. talks, the football community takes notice — and after a thrilling Champions League clash at the Santiago Bernabéu last night, the Brazilian sensation made his admiration known.
But the name he brought up? It wasn’t Jurrien Timber.
In a remarkable statement that’s caused a stir throughout Europe, Vini stated:
> “I’ve played against top defenders — Van Dijk, Kyle Walker… they’re incredible. But to be honest, I’ve never faced such a dangerously complete defender like him before. He was everywhere. Offensively, defensively, calm on the ball — it’s like he plays with ice in his veins.”
The player he was referring to? William Saliba.
The 23-year-old French center-back put in a brilliant display at the core of Arsenal’s back line, shutting down Vinícius’ trademark drives, stepping up into midfield with confidence, and demonstrating a level of composure that took even the Bernabéu faithful by surprise.
> “He’s more composed on the ball than anyone I’ve met,” Vinícius added. “He doesn’t panic, he doesn’t dive in, he waits. He reads you like a book — and you can’t do anything about it.”
Real Madrid launched repeated attacks down his flank, aiming to isolate him, press him, or catch him off guard — but Saliba remained unshaken. Whether executing a crucial tackle, turning coolly in his own penalty area, or initiating play from deep, he performed like a seasoned world-class defender.
Even Madrid supporters were left stunned after one moment in particular, when Saliba outmuscled Vinícius, turned with composure, and started a counter — all done with the confidence of a player born for the biggest stage.
> “WHAT A PLAYER HE IS,” one Madrid fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Saliba just gave Vini Jr. his toughest 90 minutes in Europe — and that’s saying something.”
Now, the football world is taking notice: William Saliba isn’t just a rising star for Arsenal — he’s already among the very best.
Here’s a word-for-word paraphrase of the passage, with all quoted parts left exactly as they are:
—
When Vinícius Jr. speaks, the footballing world listens — and following a dramatic Champions League showdown at the Santiago Bernabéu last night, the Brazilian star made sure to express his respect.
But the player he highlighted? It wasn’t Jurrien Timber.
In a powerful remark that’s turned heads across Europe, Vini said:
> “I’ve played against top defenders — Van Dijk, Kyle Walker… they’re incredible. But to be honest, I’ve never faced such a dangerously complete defender like him before. He was everywhere. Offensively, defensively, calm on the ball — it’s like he plays with ice in his veins.”
The subject of his praise? William Saliba.
The 23-year-old Frenchman delivered a standout performance at the heart of Arsenal’s defense, neutralizing Vinícius’ signature runs, confidently pushing into midfield, and displaying a poise that even the Bernabéu crowd didn’t anticipate.
> “He’s more composed on the ball than anyone I’ve met,” Vinícius added. “He doesn’t panic, he doesn’t dive in, he waits. He reads you like a book — and you can’t do anything about it.”
Real Madrid kept testing his side, trying to pin him back, overwhelm him, or lure him into errors — but Saliba stayed composed. Whether it was timing a key challenge, maneuvering smoothly inside his box, or launching an attack from deep, he looked every inch the elite defender.
Even Madrid fans were left in awe after one particular play, where Saliba outpowered Vinícius, spun away calmly, and sparked a counterattack — all done with the self-assurance of someone made for the spotlight.
> “WHAT A PLAYER HE IS,” one Madrid fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Saliba just gave Vini Jr. his toughest 90 minutes in Europe — and that’s saying something.”
Today, the broader football world is tuning in: William Saliba isn’t just a promising talent for Arsenal — he’s already among the elite.
