John Terry says Konsa replaced Saliba in Arsenal's starting XI
John Terry, speaking on the FC Bullard TikTok channel, said Arsenal’s new signing Ezri Konsa has already taken William Saliba’s place in the starting lineup and that Saliba may not regain his spot even when fit. Terry praised Konsa as a 'tremendous signing', highlighting his pace, aggression and ability to play higher up the pitch, noting they worked together at Aston Villa.
Arsenal paid £51 million for Konsa this summer, with Aston Villa set to receive up to £4 million in performance-related add-ons. The England international is expected to partner Gabriel Magalhães in central defence.
The claim matters because Saliba, who cost Arsenal £27 million in 2019, has been a regular starter when fit, and any prolonged bench role could affect his development and Arsenal’s defensive options. For fans, the debate centers on whether Arteta will rotate both players or give Konsa the preferential treatment Terry predicts.
Will Konsa’s arrival cement a new defensive partnership, or will Saliba fight to reclaim his place once injury concerns are resolved?