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.