Real Madrid wanted him. They scouted him. They rated him as a future defensive leader. And yetโฆ he chose to stay at Arsenal.
Yes, the new contract runs until 2030. Yes, the reported ยฃ300,000/week salary is massive. But letโs be honest – this was a chance to join the biggest club in world football. A club where legends are made. A club where trophies are expected, not hoped for.
Saliba had the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Ramos, Varane, Hierro. Instead, heโs chosen to stay in a project thatโs still finding its feet.
Real Madrid wonโt wait around. Theyโre already looking at Konatรฉ and Upamecano. But Saliba couldโve been the one. The Bernabรฉu was calling; and he said no.
This isnโt just about money. Itโs about ambition. About legacy. About choosing greatness over comfort.
Arsenal fans will celebrate this renewal. Madrid fans will move on. But football history might look back and ask: what if?






