William Saliba's Enduring Impact on Marseille's Offensive Strategy

**William Saliba's Enduring Impact on Marseille's Offensive Strategy**

**Introduction**

William Saliba, the young French centre-back on loan from Arsenal, has made a significant mark at Marseille, not just defensively but also offensively. His unexpected influence in the attacking phase of the game has been pivotal for Marseille, contributing to their impressive second-place finish in Ligue 1. Saliba's ability to seamlessly blend defensive prowess with offensive initiative has made him a cornerstone of Marseille's strategy.

**Influencing Build-up Play**

Saliba's role in initiating attacks from the back is crucial. His composed nature on the ball allows Marseille to build play methodically. With a passing accuracy of over 90%, Saliba consistently finds teammates in advanced positions, bypassing the press effectively. His dribbling skills, uncommon for a centre-back, enable him to navigate tight spaces, drawing opponents and creating space for others. This composure and vision have transformed Marseille's build-up play, making them a formidable force in transition.

**Progressive Carries and Passes**

Saliba's impact extends beyond distribution; he excels in progressing the ball. Averaging over 30 progressive carries per game, he often carries the ball into the final third, creating chances through his intelligent decision-making. His ability to pick out the right pass in advanced areas highlights his offensive acumen, contributing to key goals. This dynamic approach has added a new dimension to Marseille's attack, making them less predictable and more threatening.

**Conclusion**

William Saliba's offensive contributions have been transformative for Marseille. His role in build-up play and progressive carries has elevated the team's attack, complementing his defensive strengths. As Marseille continues to compete at the highest level, Saliba's influence remains central, demonstrating how a defender can be a key player in both phases of the game. His loan spell has not only benefited Marseille but also highlighted his potential for Arsenal, making him a player to watch in the future.

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